Islam Makhachev’s team fires back at Ian Garry’s Conor McGregor claim

Islam Makhachev’s camp rejects Ian Garry’s ‘not Conor’ jab

Islam Makhachev’s team has pushed back against Ian Garry’s claim that the Dagestani star is “not Conor” after the UFC 303 media day exchange on 19 July 2026. Makhachev’s camp framed Garry’s remark as irrelevant to their fighter’s legacy and focus.

What happened at the UFC 303 media day?

Ian Garry, the UFC welterweight contender, told reporters on 19 July 2026 that Islam Makhachev is “not Conor”: a reference to Conor McGregor’s global profile. Makhachev’s team saw the comment as a distraction from the Dagestani’s own achievements inside the cage.

Why it matters for Islam Makhachev

The Dagestani lightweight champion has built his reputation on technical grappling and dominant performances, not headline-grabbing antics. His camp insists the focus should stay on Makhachev’s undefeated run and title defenses, not comparisons to other stars. The team’s response signals they won’t engage in off-cage debates that don’t reflect their fighter’s game plan.

What comes next for Makhachev?

Makhachev remains booked for a high-profile lightweight title defense later in 2026. His next opponent is expected to be a top-five contender, though no official announcement has dropped. The Dagestani’s camp is laser-focused on the next fight, not side-shows from rivals.