Two undefeated welterweights fought for a title shot against UFC welterweight champ Belal Muhammad at UFC 310 as Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry fought 5 rounds for the #1 contender spot.
The fight did not go the way many people thought as Garry was able to defend all takedowns through two rounds, and forces Rakhmonov to fight him on the feet. In the first round it was all wrestling.
The second round was more wrestling, but with the lack of takedowns from Rakhmonov, Garry found the confidence to attack the legs with kicks. Through the second and third rounds it was Garry who would defend takedowns and score points with kicks to the legs and oblique kicks.
The fourth round brought the first takedown of the fight with just under 3 minutes left in the round and it seemed as thought the #1 contender finally got Garry where he wanted. Garry spent time on his back using the body triangle to help keep Rakhmonov’s posture broken and avoid damage.
Eventually he made his way back to his feet only to get taken down once again with Rakhmonv on top for the rest of the round.
Fifth round was all Rakhmonov as he was able to fend off Garry’s kick attacks, got takedowns, and was able to control the fight to the end. Rakhmonov grabbed his first decision victory and solidified his title shot against UFC welterweight champ Belal Muhammad.
Official Result: Shavkat Rakhmonov def. Ian Machado Garry via Unanimous Decision (48-47×3)
