Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Garry: Four Brazilian experts make their UFC 330 picks
Striker vs. grappler. Size vs. strength. Ireland vs. Russia. The UFC 330 main event on Saturday has fans and analysts intrigued by the technical and tactical possibilities of a five-round championship fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry.
UFC 330 main event draws expert analysis | 📷: Chris Unger/Zuffa/Getty Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry are set to battle for the welterweight title, with Brazilian experts offering their predictions. While three analysts believe Makhachev will retain his title, only one thinks Garry will emerge victorious. Fighting Nerds coach Pablo Sucupira suggests Ian Garry's size advantage could allow him to control the fight at a distance, making it difficult for Makhachev to take him down.
However, UFC welterweight contender Michael Oliveira remains confident in Makhachev's abilities, noting the Russian's resilience and adaptability. Ronny Markes of Porrada Training Center believes Garry's distance control and ability to frustrate Makhachev's takedowns could give him the edge, especially if the fight goes to the ground where Islam's superior grappling could pose a challenge.
Head coach Marcelo Brigadeiro of Astra Fight Team emphasizes that Makhachev's experience with heavier opponents will not be an insurmountable obstacle, and he expects Islam to retain his belt once again.
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