At UFC Fight Night in Doha, Qatar, Ian Machado Garry showcased a dominant performance against former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, making a bold statement toward Islam Makhachev.

While Garry didn’t score a knockout like fellow welterweights Michael Morales or Carlos Prates at UFC 322, his strategic victory over Muhammad brings him closer than ever to a potential showdown with Makhachev.

Garry successfully defended against all seven takedown attempts and kept the fight standing, wearing down Muhammad and proving his striking prowess.

In a fiery post-fight interview, Garry addressed Makhachev directly:

"Belal couldn’t take me down, so Islam, you try. I’m telling you right now, I’m the best in the world.

You need to defend your belt against the top welterweight on the planet. That’s me - Ian Machado Garry.

Wherever you go, I’ll meet you. I’m taking that throne from you.

The streak ends here. Sign the contract, and I’ll be there."

Muhammad, who lost to Leon Edwards in July 2024 and has now suffered back-to-back defeats, went the full 15 minutes but couldn’t overcome Garry’s precise striking.

Meanwhile, Garry is riding a two-fight win streak following his December 2024 loss to top contender Shavkat Rakhmonov, positioning himself as a rising force in the welterweight division.

With this victory, Garry is likely to claim Muhammad’s No. 2 spot in the UFC welterweight rankings, edging ever closer to a title clash with Islam Makhachev, setting up one of the most anticipated matchups in the division.