Daniel Cormier warns not to underestimate Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330, predicting a tough night for both fighters, including the welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) is a big underdog when he challenges Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) in the Aug. 15 main event at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia (Paramount+).
Cormier, who was a longtime training partner of Makhachev's at American Kickboxing Academy, believes that the fight will be determined by what happens in the beginning. "If Garry is able to stay upright for the first round, it could be a long night for Islam," Cormier said on his YouTube channel.
Cormier is aware of the criticism Machado Garry gets for his personality, but says that shouldn't overshadow his fighting ability. "When you look within Garry the fighter, he is elite," Cormier said.
Makhachev accused Machado Garry of being a runner in his fights, which Cormier thinks is tactical. "Islam is almost trying to challenge his ego to try and make him fight the fight that would suit him," Cormier said.
Cormier believes that Machado Garry's size and agility could cause issues for Makhachev. "He'll be a shorter fighter in the octagon this time, and Garry won't be stationary standing in front of him," Cormier said.
It's worth noting that Machado Garry's height and weight advantage could be a significant factor in the fight. As a welterweight, Makhachev will be at a size disadvantage against the taller Machado Garry.
Cormier's comments come as a surprise to many fans, who may have written off Machado Garry as a formidable opponent. However, Cormier's analysis highlights the potential for an upset in the fight.
The world will be watching on Aug. 15 as Machado Garry takes on Makhachev in the main event of UFC 330. Will Cormier's predictions come true, or will Makhachev prove to be too much for the underdog?
Source: Yahoo Sports