Poirier On Machado Garry's Path To Upset Makhachev
This author receives a commission through recommended links in this content. See our affiliate disclosure.
Dustin Poirier sees one path to victory for Ian Machado Garry when the Irish welterweight challenges Islam Makhachev for the title Saturday night at UFC 330.
Poirier, who lost to Makhachev in a lightweight title fight, told Deep Waters that Machado Garry must control distance and positioning to stand a chance. "If he can keep Islam at the end of his punches and use good footwork, keep the fight in the middle of the octagon, stay off the fence, that's where he's going to have success," Poirier said, per MMA Junkie.
🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 330: Makhachev vs Machado Garry on Ticketmaster →
Makhachev's Takedown Threat Looms Large
The former interim lightweight champion cautioned that Machado Garry's ability to stand back up will determine the outcome once Makhachev secures his first takedown. "The first takedown, it's going to happen. He's not going to defend everything," Poirier said, as reported by BJPenn.com. "His ability to get back up is going to tell the tale of the fight, I think."
Poirier praised Makhachev's credentials as the reigning champion looks to set the UFC record for consecutive wins. He noted that Makhachev has cleared out the lightweight division, beaten the best featherweight, and captured the welterweight belt, calling that the true definition of pound-for-pound greatness.
🎟️ Get tickets: Buy tickets to UFC 330: Makhachev vs Machado Garry on Ticketmaster →
The main event takes place Saturday in Philadelphia, with Makhachev defending his welterweight strap against Machado Garry.
Reported via:
Get Ringside Updates
Fight announcements, results, and analysis delivered to your inbox. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.