UFC 330: Garry Aims for Makhachev Welterweight Title

Ahead of the August 15 showdown at Philadelphia’s Xfinity Mobile Arena, Demian Maia is touting Ian Garry’s readiness to contest Islam Makhachev for the UFC welterweight championship. The Brazilian jiu‑jitsu veteran has been part of Garry’s preparation since a 2023 seminar in Barcelona, immersing the Irish fighter in techniques aimed at grappling exchanges with the reigning champion.

Ian Garry’s Training with Demian Maia

Maia first crossed paths with Garry when he taught a clinic in Barcelona and the future champion reached out. Over the years, Maia has returned to Europe, most recently traveling to Spain for another seminar and conducting an intensive camp focused on what he believes is needed against Makhachev. The partnership continues with Maia slated to sit in the corner alongside Diego Lima, John Hathaway and Paulo Mauricio Strauch on fight night.

Garry’s record sits at 17 wins and a single loss, while Makhachev enters with an unbeaten 28‑1 mark and is a heavy –300 favorite. Despite the odds, Maia warns that Makhachev’s elite jiu‑jitsu could rise to no‑gi competition levels, labeling the title bout a “historical dispute.” The coach expects a grueling contest, praising both fighters’ skills and preparation.

Why Garry’s Fight IQ Could Trouble Makhachev

Maia highlights a striking example of Garry’s quick learning during his victory over Carlos Prates. A takedown variation shown just before fight week was executed a dozen times in the bout, underscoring the welterweight’s ability to absorb and apply new tactics under pressure. According to Maia, Garry’s greatest asset isn’t reach or distance control but his fight intelligence and adaptability.

While noting Garry’s defensive prowess, cardio and takedown defense, Maia stresses that the Irish fighter reads opponents exceptionally well and adjusts on the fly. He also points out that Makhachev’s jiu‑jitsu is of the highest caliber, suggesting the champion could compete among the best in advanced no‑gi tournaments. The result, Maia predicts, will be a hard‑fought championship clash that could rewrite the sport’s record books.

In the corner, Garry will have a seasoned team backing him: Maia, longtime fight partner Diego Lima, veteran jiu‑jitsu coach John Hathaway and Paulo Mauricio Strauch. Together they aim to maximize the Irish fighter’s strengths and exploit any openings against one of the UFC’s dominant champions.