Ian Machado Garry just made welterweight champion Islam Makhachev look vulnerable at UFC 330, and suddenly, the entire division is on high alert. Makhachev might have held onto his title, but Garry’s incredible defense and relentless kicks gave one of MMA’s most dominant champions serious fits. It was a difficult fight for the champ, and it has absolutely invigorated a hungry group of contenders ready to take his spot.
The Welterweight Gauntlet Awaits Makhachev
After that showing, the next generation of welterweight contenders look seriously dangerous, and two names were Octagon-side for a reason: Carlos Prates and Michael Morales. They are neck-and-neck in the rankings, but let’s be real, only one guy truly deserves that title shot. It is not the one who weighed in as Saturday’s backup. Prates’ resume? Simply more impressive. He brutally knocked out former champions Jack Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards, handing Edwards his first KO loss. Morales’ best wins are against Sean Brady, who is No. 6, and a retired Gilbert Burns. C’mon, it is a no-brainer: Prates should absolutely fight for the title next.
What’s Next for the “Irish Dragon” and a Rising Contender?
As for Ian Machado Garry, he has a knack for giving elite fighters tough fights, and he probably elevated his stock even in defeat. That complicates his path forward. The most sensible option would be for Garry to face the winner of the Sean Brady vs. Gabriel Bonfim fight, which is headlining a UFC Fight Night in November. However, if Prates gets the next title shot against Makhachev, Morales could be left waiting for a long time. The best solution? Pair Garry and Morales. Imagine that as the co-main event for Makhachev vs. Prates, giving Morales a huge platform and a chance to step up if anything goes sideways with the main event. Talk about high stakes!
Mackenzie Dern’s Reign Faces Scrutiny
Meanwhile, Mackenzie Dern kept her strawweight title, but her first title defense did little to quiet questions about her place at the top. She showed real improvements, especially on her feet, and dominated an overconfident Gillian Robertson on the ground through the first two rounds. However, Robertson’s late success absolutely took the shine off what started as a strong performance. Zhang Weili remains the undisputed measuring stick at strawweight. Until Dern gets that chance to face Weili, some fans are definitely going to doubt Dern’s claim to the throne.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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