Demian Maia backs Ian Machado Garry to beat Islam Makhachev
The Brazilian grappling ace acknowledges Makhachev's danger on the ground but believes Garry has the tools to become champion.
Ahead of his title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 330, Ian Machado Garry is fully aware of the danger the UFC two-division champion presents on the ground. In order to try to neutralize the Russian's game, the Irishman is training with grappling specialist Demian Maia while preparing for the matchup.
Arguably one of the best grapplers in UFC history, Maia acknowledges Makhachev's elite ground game, where a single mistake can prove costly. However, the Brazilian is also confident Garry can use his striking and distance control to emerge victorious from the fight.
Demian Maia Acknowledges Islam Makhachev's Elite Grappling Skills
Widely regarded as one of the best wrestlers in the UFC, Makhachev has built his game around powerful takedowns, relentless pressure and methodical ground control. Since joining the UFC, the champion has dominated most of his opponents on the ground, showing how costly even a small mistake can be against him.
Maia knows that all too well. With his extensive grappling experience, the Brazilian understands how Makhachev can capitalize on any opening his opponents leave. Speaking on UFC Countdown, Maia said the Russian champion presents a major challenge for anyone.
"Islam presents problems to everyone," Maia began. "He has good striking, but mainly, Islam's strength is his grappling game: great takedowns, great variations on the ground, different kinds of submissions. Makhachev will take advantage of any mistake that you do with your elbow, with your leg, with your hips in the wrong direction – he will get you."
Demian Maia Believes Ian Machado Garry Has Tools to Win
Although he is aware of the challenges Makhachev will bring to the Octagon, Maia is also confident Garry can become the new champion. According to the Brazilian, the Irishman is a smart fighter whose striking and ability to control distance could give him the edge against Makhachev.
"Ian is a very smart fighter", Maia said. "He understands that the most obvious advantage is his striking and control of distance. That's why he has the tools to be the champion."
With Makhachev's grappling presenting the biggest threat to Garry's title hopes, the Irishman will have to rely on his ability to keep the fight at range. With Maia helping him prepare for that challenge, Garry will look to keep Makhachev from imposing his grappling game when they meet inside the Octagon.
