Another Victory and a New Record for Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev successfully defended his welterweight title, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 48-47) after five grueling rounds in the main event of UFC 330 in Philadelphia.

Makhachev opened the fight with low kicks targeting his opponent's lead leg. Within the first minute, both fighters patiently gauged their distance before the Dagestani secured his first takedown. Machado Garry managed to scramble to the cage and stand up, but Makhachev's body lock control was relentless. The 34-year-old former lightweight champion kept his opponent pinned against the octagon for the remainder of the round.

Machado Garry started the second round more aggressively. The 28-year-old challenger attempted a high kick, but Makhachev effectively blocked it with both hands. The Dublin native also tried body kicks and strikes to Makhachev's right knee, but failed to inflict significant damage. Midway through the round, they clinched, with Machado Garry pressing Makhachev against the octagon. As they broke apart, Makhachev landed a high kick that visibly rocked Garry, followed by a textbook hip toss takedown. On the ground, Makhachev transitioned to side control, then half guard. In the final 45 seconds of the round, Makhachev managed to roll to his stomach and get back to his feet.

Midway through the third round, Makhachev again secured a takedown, targeting Machado Garry's lead leg. However, the younger fighter reversed the position and stood up. The Irishman performed better on the feet this round, landing more kicks.

Makhachev scored another takedown, this time in the middle of the fourth round, but again failed to control his opponent on the ground or inflict damage or attempt a submission. Khabib Nurmagomedov's successor in the UFC continued his pressure and wrestling attempts, but Machado Garry used the cage to his advantage this time, preventing another takedown.

Machado Garry started the decisive fifth round strong with a powerful right cross to Makhachev's face. The Dagestani's face was reddened and swollen from Machado Garry's strikes. Makhachev secured a crucial takedown midway through the round and latched onto Machado Garry's back. The Dagestani maintained a dominant position until the end of the bout, securing his victory on the judges' scorecards.