Fighting Nerds coach: Ian Garry has tools to defeat Islam Makhachev

Fighting Nerds coach Pablo Sucupira has weighed in on the anticipated UFC welterweight title matchup between champion Islam Makhachev and Irish contender Ian Garry, arguing that Garry possesses the skill set to pose the most difficult challenge of Makhachev's career.

Speaking to Sherdog.com, Sucupira highlighted the significant physical disparities that exist across the welterweight division. He noted that while some fighters at 170 pounds could compete at lighter weights, others possess the frame to move up. Garry, in Sucupira's assessment, is considerably larger than Makhachev and boasts a striking style that sets him apart from other top contenders. Unlike some aggressive strikers, Garry uses his lead hand precisely to control distance and angles—a technical approach that makes him difficult to take down and keep grounded.

"It's not easy to take him down and keep him on the bottom," Sucupira explained. "In my opinion, he has the right game to beat Makhachev."

While Sucupira acknowledged that Makhachev's pound-for-pound ranking did not come by chance and remains an exceptional fighter, he believes a Garry clash would test the champion's mettle more severely than any previous opponent.

Sucupira also floated an intriguing scenario: a title rematch between Garry and fellow contender Carlos Prates in Brazil for the welterweight crown. Prates, coached by Sucupira, had suggested he might take an intermediate fight before pursuing a title shot, but the Fighting Nerds leader believes his fighter should pursue gold immediately. Sucupira admitted personal bias may color his analysis but maintained that a Prates-Garry rematch for the belt in Brazil would captivate fans.