At UFC 310, held in Las Vegas, Ian Machado Garry faced off against Shavkat Rakhmonov in a highly anticipated co-main event. Despite a valiant effort that included a late rally, Garry ultimately fell short, losing to Rakhmonov by unanimous decision. The judges scored the fight 48-47 across the board, marking Garry’s first defeat, which brought his record to 15-1. Rakhmonov, remaining undefeated at 19-0, became the first fighter to take him the distance, solidifying his position as the No. 1 contender in the welterweight division.
Originally, Rakhmonov was scheduled to fight welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, who withdrew due to a bone infection. This unexpected change allowed Garry to step in as a replacement. In the main event, Alexandre Pantoja successfully defended his flyweight title against Kai Asakura, forcing a submission in the second round, further establishing his dominance in the division.
The undercard featured multiple notable fights, including Ciryl Gane’s split decision win over Alexander Volkov and Machida’s submission victory against Themba Gorimbo. The event showcased high-level competition, reinforcing the depth of talent present in the UFC.
Garry’s loss, while disappointing, reflects the fierce competition at the top levels of the sport. His ability to last five rounds against one of the best in Rakhmonov points to notable resilience, suggesting he can come back stronger in future bouts.
This event indicates that the welterweight division remains dynamic, with Rakhmonov poised for a title shot against Muhammad. Pantoja’s success also creates an intriguing narrative as he seeks to establish his legacy in the flyweight division.
Overall, UFC 310 highlighted the thrilling nature of mixed martial arts, with both defeats and victories providing pathways of growth for the fighters involved. Looking ahead, Garry has the opportunity to reflect, regroup, and work toward a resurgence in future fights.