Not many people are counting on Ian Machado Garry handing Shavkat Rakhmonov his first professional loss later tonight (Sat., Dec. 7, 2024) at UFC 310 LIVE on ESPN+ pay-per-view (PPV) from inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, but “BMF” champion Max Holloway believes the Irishman can pull off the improbable.
As it stands right now, Garry is a sizeable underdog going up against Rakhmonov this weekend at UFC 310. While both fighters are undefeated it’s Shavkat’s 100% finish rate and overall aura of mystery that has some Garry fans worried for his co-main event title eliminator. In addition, the two welterweights trained together a few years ago and most reports suggest Rakhmonov got the best of those exchanges.
In any case, Garry will have his opportunity to set his doubters straight in the ultimate proving ground in combat sports. The Octagon door will shut on Saturday night and two of the most promising undefeated fighters in mixed martial arts (MMA) will go to war until only one is left standing.
While most are expecting Rakhmonov to win and win handily, others aren’t so sure. Garry is one of the best strikers at 170 pounds today and certainly capable of leaning on his offense to outduel anyone in the division. He’ll have to be nearly perfect in his search for an upset win over Rakhmonov, but it’s possible. Just ask Holloway, as “Blessed” believes Garry’s movement and combat IQ will play a big factor in the fight.
“A lot of people think Shavkat is gonna go in there and run Ian over,” said Holloway via his YouTube channel. “I think Ian is a very smart fighter, very witty fighter. Very smart and he can change on a dime. If he wants to strike, he’s gonna strike. If he wants take you to the ground, he’s gonna take you to the ground. Very complete mixed martial artist.”
Holloway is one of the most respected fighters on the UFC roster with one of the best boxing attacks in the sport. His praise goes a long way so this should make Garry’s nervous fans a little happier heading into Saturday night.
Of course, Holloway doesn’t know how Shavkat vs. Garry will unfold in the co-main event of UFC 310, but he expects the first fighter to get hurt to lose.
“I can see Shavkat getting a hold of something and just squeezing his neck off or his arm,” Holloway said. “I don’t know, but is he gonna be able to take the strikes from Ian on the standup? Ian is a super sharpshooter, bro.
“I think the first man to get hurt loses this fight.”
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