Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry trade social media barbs after champion teases July fight

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev didn’t take kindly to Ian Machado Garry’s latest claim that he’s faking injuries to avoid a fight.

Islam Makhachev made headlines earlier this week when he teased a potential UFC return in July, likely for the upcoming UFC 329 card during International Fight Week. As of this writing, the full UFC 329 card hasn’t been announced, although Conor McGregor has long been rumored to fight in the main event slot.

Makhachev hasn’t defended the welterweight title since winning it against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 last year. He was briefly linked to a super fight against Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, before all sides couldn’t come to terms on a last-second deal.

Makhachev’s delayed return timeline was due to a rumored hand injury suffered in the Maddalena fight. Top contender Ian Machado Garry, who makes a strong case for a shot at Makhachev, has questioned Makhachev’s health status and believes he’s ‘faking’ the injury.

After Makhachev’s latest July fight tease, it didn’t take long for Garry to weigh in.

Islam Makhachev, Ian Machado Garry spar as potential UFC 329 announcement looms

In a recent Instagram comment, Garry appeared to respond to Makhachev’s latest fight tease.

“First you say you have a hand injury, Dana said August, you’re saying July,” Garry said to Makhachev.

“I’ve been ready since you last turned me down in May. We’re all waiting on you princess.”

It didn’t take long for Makhachev to take notice of Garry’s comments, as he responded in a recent X post.

“Don’t worry about my injuries,” Makhachev responded to Garry.

“I’m ready at any time. I’m waiting for the contract.”

Garry, Michael Morales, and the winner of Maddalena vs. Carlos Prates all make compelling cases for a fight with Makhachev. Morales finished Sean Brady at UFC 322 last year and is unbeaten in his promotional tenure.

But the heat is ramping up between Makhachev and Garry, and the matchmakers could be days away from announcing UFC 329 and Makhachev’s next fight.

What is your prediction for a potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Machado Garry fight? Let us know in the comments!