Jorge Masvidal doesn’t expect Ian Machado Garry will be able to handle Islam Makhachev‘s ground game.
Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) challenges welterweight champion Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) in the UFC 330 main event Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia (Paramount+).
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Masvidal envisions a specific scenario unfolding in the fight.
“Nah, I think he’s getting choked to sleep,” Masvidal said of Machado Garry on “Deep Waters.” “That’s at least what I’m hoping for. I hope Makhachev goes in there, manhandles his ass, gets his neck, and puts his ass to sleep.”
Machado Garry is a big underdog against Makhachev. While Masvidal thinks the Irishman has an advantage on the feet, he said Makhachev’s advantage on the ground is even bigger.
“His defense isn’t bad, and his footwork is what I think keeps it amazing, but he’s never grappled with a guy like Makhachev that has sweeps, the inside trips, the upper body,” Masvidal said.
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Masvidal said Machado Garry being on his bicycle could pose problems for Makhachev early, but he sees the champion eventually imposing his will.
“What makes it so tough is going to be the footwork because he does have exceptional footwork and that reach,” Masvidal said of Machado Garry. “He’s just going to be able to keep Makhachev the first two rounds, but I think after the third round when people start to get tired and the legs are with a little bit of lactic acid, Makhachev is going to start to really take over.”
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Jorge Masvidal hopes Islam Makhachev ‘manhandles’ Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330
