Islam Makhachev’s Coach Shares Honest Take On Ian Garry’s Bizarre Antics

The championship bout between Ian Garry and Islam Makhachev turned out to be an intriguing main event. But throughout the bout, Garry showed a lot of respect to his opponent. In fact, his constant hugging was, at certain points, a bit too bothersome for Makhachev. Reflecting on the same, the Dagestani’s coach, Javier Mendez, dropped an honest take. 

Javier Mendez Feels Ian Garry’s Hugging Was Scary

While Makhachev took the win, his opponent came into the limelight for one particular reason. The Irishman’s show of respect caught everyone’s eyes. But while most dismissed it as Garry lacking a killer instinct, Mendez had a completely contradictory notion about the same. 

Speaking on Submission Radio, Makhachev’s coach said, “In my whole corner years, I have never seen that behavior of hugging and being too nice. I thought it was kind of genius. It made him comfortable, made him into his group."

He further added, "I was more concerned when he was doing that than less concerned. I was thinking, 'Crap, he's more focused than ever. He shook all our hands. I've never had that happen. Ever."

Surely, despite losing, the Irish fighter looked quite impressive. As Makhachev attempted quite a few takedowns, the 28-year-old’s takedown defense was impeccable. He also recovered exceptionally from a vicious head kick that had him knocked down momentarily. 

Interestingly, this is the same aspect of Garry that seemingly bothered Makhachev the most. 

Islam Makhachev Unhappy With Ian Garry’s Overdoing

‘The Future’ has a knack for respecting his opponents. But sometimes, it can result in fighters feeling a bit uncomfortable. Speaking on the matter, the Dagestani champion pointed out how the 28-year-old should have saved all his gestures for the end. 

Taken aback at what Garry did, Makhachev said in the post-fight presser, “Honestly, I don’t understand. This is a fight. This is not something we have to hug each other every round. We’re going to war. We’re going to break the face, to break the eye. I respect all my opponents. But. He respects too much.”

Now then, with a lot of talks happening, it remains to be seen whether Garry changes his approach or not.