Ian Garry believes Islam Makhachev is making excuses to stay inactive

Ian Garry disputed reports of an Islam Makhachev hand injury, a development that affects upcoming UFC matchmaking. The Islam Makhachev injury surfaced after talk of a June White House event, while Ilia Topuria is now set to face Justin Gaethje in a title unification bout on June 14. Dana White mentioned a possible hand issue but said he was not certain.Garry, citing Makhachev's win over Jack Della Maddalena last year, suggested the champion is avoiding competition and joked about horse riding in an Instagram post. White refuted rumors that Makhachev vs. Topuria was planned. Garry and Michael Morales are described as frontrunners for the next welterweight title shot, with Morales claiming he moved ahead.