UFC welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry has taken a defeat against Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 into stride, maintaining his belief that he is destined for greatness in the division. Despite losing the undefeated record of 19-0 to 15-1, Machado Garry doesn’t feel like a loser.
“I don’t feel like I lost today,” Machado Garry said after the fight. “I might not have gotten my hand raised, but I came out and fought a giant. I showed that he’s human, and I had fun.”
Machado Garry went on to reveal that he believes Rakhmonov is better than everyone else in the division, including himself. However, this doesn’t diminish Machado Garry’s confidence in his abilities, as he claims they will be matched multiple times throughout their careers.
“I said it before the fight – I believe that he’s better than everybody else and I believe that I’m better than everyone else,” Machado Garry explained. “We’re going to see each other multiple times.”
A potential rematch or trilogy between the two fighters is now all but inevitable, with many speculating that Rakhmonov will face Belal Muhammad for the UFC welterweight championship in 2025. However, Machado Garry believes he has what it takes to be champion and will continue to prove himself as one of the top contenders in the division.
Source: https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2024/12/ufc-310-ian-machado-garry-reacts-shavkat-rakhmonov-first-career-loss