Makhachev On Garry's Oliveira Prep

Islam Makhachev is not impressed by Ian Machado Garry's training camp.

Garry has been working with Charles Oliveira in Brazil ahead of UFC 330, leaning on his longtime training partner to help him prepare for what would be one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. Makhachev, who defends the welterweight title against Garry next month, has a different read on what that preparation is actually going to produce.

"Charles is going to teach him how to tap fast, that's it," Makhachev

Makhachev and Oliveira fought for the lightweight title in 2022 at UFC 280, and Makhachev submitted the Brazilian in the second round — a result that was considered a significant accomplishment given Oliveira's reputation as one of the most dangerous submission artists in the sport's history. Beyond the jab at the training camp choice, Makhachev outlined his game plan with straightforward clarity.

"I just have to run in this camp because he runs too much. I know his game plan, we see his fights and he has the same style, always. I'll try to catch him, take him down and do just I've done with all of my other opponents,” Makhachev

Garry's tendency to move and stay on the outside is well established. The Irish welterweight has built his career on angles, footwork, and timing, keeping opponents uncomfortable while landing clean shots. Against most opponents it works. Against Makhachev, the question has always been whether footwork and striking is enough to keep a grappler of his level at bay for five rounds.

Makhachev returns to the Octagon having not fought since UFC 322, where he finished Jack Della Maddalena to become a two-division UFC champion. Makhachev has earned the right to speak about opponents this way. Whether Garry can prove him wrong is what UFC 330 is for.