Makhachev retains UFC welterweight belt in UD win over Garry

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Islam Makhachev successfully defended his UFC welterweight title after pulling off a unanimous decision victory over Ian Machado Garry in the main event of UFC 330 at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on Aug. 16, 2026.

With the grueling victory, the Russian MMA star extended his UFC streak to 17 consecutive wins, surpassing Anderson Silva’s record for the longest winning streak in UFC history.

Nine months after taking down Jack Della Maddalena to win the undisputed welterweight belt, Makhachev didn’t miss a step, keeping himself in shape to withstand Garry’s high motor inside the octagon.

As expected, Makhachev took the fight to the ground as he set the tone with early takedowns to earn the nods of the official ringside judges.

Makhachev brought something new to the table, flaunting his offseason training with heavy use of knee locks and waist control to prevent Garry from sprawling away.

All hell broke loose in the second round after Makhachev floored Garry with a devastating left head kick midway through the period.

Garry was able to get away and redirect his focus, banking on his longer reach to gain some points by jabbing efficiently at the end of the round.

In Rounds 3 and 4, Garry started to gain some momentum after turning the fight into a stand-up exchange, a scenario that Makhachev’s camp had sought to avoid.

When Makhachev attempted to grab his leg to set up his takedowns, Garry wisely backpedaled, waited for his timing, and landed some huge straight rights.

However, the more experienced champion capped the fight with a masterclass as he countered Garry’s evasive tactics by cornering him in the octagon.

With several quick lateral steps, Makhachev caught Garry with three check leg kicks, which set up two crucial takedowns.

Garry tried to replicate his third-round efficiency by luring Makhachev to the middle of the octagon, but the wise champion didn’t bite on the trap and waited for the final bell.

With another win, Makhachev improved his record to 29 wins and one loss, with 13 submissions and six knockouts, while Garry dropped to 17 wins and two losses.