Chute Boxe leader Diego Lima believes Ian Machado Garry’s reputation has grown despite his recent loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov, as Garry demonstrated his potential to become a division champion, and Lima anticipates big future fights for him, possibly ending 2025 fighting for the belt.
Chute Boxe leader Diego Lima believes Ian Machado Garry’s reputation has only grown, even after losing to Shavkat Rakhmonov last December in Las Vegas. It’s interesting how a setback can sometimes propel a fighter forward.
Lima watched his protégé step up on short notice at UFC 310. Garry replaced welterweight champ Belal Muhammad and nearly choked out Rakhmonov in the fifth round. Quite a spectacle! Despite dropping to an 8-1 record in the UFC, Lima remains proud of Garry’s performance.
“I think Ian Garry showed who he is,” Lima told MMA Fighting. “Regardless of the result, I think he showed the f*cking fighter he is.” Such passion! He believes Garry has what it takes to become the division’s No. 1. Almost finishing the fight? That’s no small feat.
Lima is confident in Garry’s future, given his age, talent, and the attention he garners. “He will become champion of this division sooner or later,” Lima asserts. The goal is clear.
Garry recently flew back to São Paulo to get ready for his next UFC camp. Lima anticipates a big-name opponent for him soon.
“Thinking about the right fight now, maybe we end this year fighting for the belt,” Lima muses. “I really believe we can end 2025 fighting for the belt.” Ambitious plans!
Rakhmonov seems poised for a title shot against Muhammad, while Leon Edwards faces Jack Della Maddalena at UFC London on March 22. Kamaru Usman, meanwhile, waits for his next move.
“Colby [Covington] runs from him,” Lima claims. “Colby talks but doesn’t back it up.” Harsh words! Yet, Lima sees Edwards and Usman as potential paths to the championship belt for Garry.