Islam Makhachev’s coach backs Ian Garry’s No. 1 UFC ranking after loss

Javier Mendez praised Ian Garry's UFC 330 effort and said the Irish welterweight should keep his No. 1 contender spot, underscoring stakes for the division. In the bout, Islam Makhachev defended his welterweight title against Garry by decision in Philadelphia after the challenger stuffed multiple takedown and submission attempts. Mendez told Submission Radio that Makhachev landed some takedowns but struggled to control Ian Garry compared with prior opponents. Garry showed no visible fatigue and looked fresher late, while the champion's face was heavily bruised. Mendez said the performance validated Garry's ranking. Makhachev is targeting Carlos Prates next, with Michael Morales also in contention.