The welterweight division is set for an electrifying showdown as Ian Machado Garry prepares to face Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 on December 7. Both fighters carry unbeaten records into this bout, with Garry at 15-0 and Rakhmonov at 18-0. Scheduled to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this five-round encounter has ignited anticipation among fans and analysts alike, catalyzed by the dynamic styles each fighter brings. Interestingly, Joaquin Buckley, who was originally slated to fight Garry at UFC on ESPN 63, has shared his insights on this pivotal matchup, indicating a nuanced outlook on Garry’s potential path to victory.
In a candid assessment, Buckley posits that Garry will employ a strategic approach to secure a narrow victory against Rakhmonov. While acknowledging Rakhmonov’s formidable threat, he believes that Garry’s ability to “stick and move” will be crucial. This stylistic choice aligns with Garry’s track record, where he has successfully danced around aggressive opponents in past matches, maximizing his evasiveness while minimizing risk. According to Buckley, Garry operates with a sense of survival, utilizing speed and footwork to remain out of danger, which could be vital against a powerful striker like Rakhmonov.
The challenge lies in Rakhmonov’s high-level grappling and ability to land damaging strikes, illustrating the classic striker versus grappler scenario. Buckley warns that engaging too closely with Rakhmonov could lead to severe repercussions—a point often overlooked in hyperbolic analyses that focus solely on striking capabilities. For Garry, the key to victory will be maintaining distance and continual movement, implementing traps that can frustrate his opponent’s attempts to get inside.
Despite facing off with Rakhmonov for not securing a fight against Garry, Buckley is not left without opportunity. He is set to battle former interim welterweight champion Colby Covington on December 14, a bout that promises to showcase Buckley’s grit and skill at the highest level. This unexpected turn highlights the unpredictable nature of fight scheduling in the UFC. Buckley’s eagerness to step into the ring with Covington signifies his commitment to evolving as a fighter, regardless of his missed chance against Garry.
The culmination of these matchups will undoubtedly have lasting impacts on the welterweight landscape. Garry’s attempt to remain undefeated against a dangerous challenger like Rakhmonov will not only define his career trajectory but may also influence how future contenders modify their strategies against him. Meanwhile, Buckley’s upcoming bout against Covington will serve to reaffirm his place in the division and validate his readiness for top-tier competition.
As UFC 310 approaches, fans are eagerly waiting to witness the tactical maneuvers that Garry and Rakhmonov will bring to the octagon. Buckley’s analysis frames an engaging narrative about fight dynamics, meritocracies, and the broader implications for the welterweight division. With each fighter looking to extend their unbeaten streaks, this clash is set to deliver drama, skill, and high stakes—a true spectacle for the sport of mixed martial arts.