Michael Chiesa shares his thoughts on Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Garry: "First time that Shavkat goes the distance"
Shavkat Rakhmonov has not entered the octagon since defeating Stephen 'Wonderboy' Thompson via second-round submission at UFC 296 last December. He appeared set to receive his first undisputed title opportunity and the first main event of his UFC career against Belal Muhammad at UFC 310 this weekend.
The welterweight champion was forced to withdraw from the bout due to a bone infection in his foot. However, 'Nomad' will now face Ian Garry in a five-round title eliminator. Michael Chiesa recently weighed in on the upcoming matchup, predicting that it will mark the first time a bout featuring Rakhmonov goes to the judges. Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, 'Maverick' claimed:
"I think this is going to be the first time that Shavkat goes the distance and I say that with all due respect to him. I just think that Ian Garry, he's a tough out, he's elusive, he's confident. I think a lot of times the aura that Shavkat brings to the octagon can kind of break guys down in a sense. I mean, the guy is undefeated, all finishes. He can knock you out, he can submit you, he can do everything."
Chiesa continued:
"So, I think when he starts to gain traction on guys, they start to melt a little bit. And I think a guy like Ian Garry, even if he loses a round or two, I don't think it's going to break his confidence. I think he's elusive enough to avoid some of the attacks of Shavkat, but ultimately, in the end, I think Shavkat gets his hand raised. I think he's the more well-rounded fighter.
Check out Michael Chiesa's comments on Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Garry below:
Chiesa added that Garry's elusiveness will be pivotal to his success. He claimed that the No. 7-ranked welterweight will need to change stances and utilize his kicks to keep Rakhmonov at range.
Charles Oliveira to corner Ian Garry against Shavkat Rakhmonov
Ian Garry will have the biggest opportunity of his mixed martial arts career when he faces Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 this weekend. The No. 7-ranked welterweight will reportedly have former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira in his corner for the upcoming bout.
Championship Rounds shared comments from Garry's YouTube Q&A where he revealed the news, posting:
"🚨 Ian Garry reveals that Charles Oliveira will be in his corner for his fight against Shavkat at #UFC310 👀"
Check out Championship Rounds' tweet on Charles Oliveira cornering Ian Garry vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov below:
Garry has trained alongside Oliveira at Chute Boxe Academy since 2023. 'The Future' and Rakhmonov will both put their undefeated records on the line to challenge Belal Muhammad for the welterweight title.