Makhachev and Garry clash on women's authority ahead of UFC 330 title fight

Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry are set to meet for the UFC welterweight title at UFC 330 on August 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, but a pair of recent interviews has put the two fighters at odds well before fight night — this time over the role of women in decision-making.

Garry drew significant public backlash after opening up about his emotional and feminine side in a recent interview. The Irish welterweight, who holds a 17-1 record, said he was unafraid to cry during Disney movies and argued that staying in touch with his feminine side made him feel more masculine. He went further, stating that the world would be a better place if women ran it and men simply listened to them.

Makhachev, meanwhile, offered a contrasting perspective — albeit in a lighter context. During a separate interview, the 28-1 champion invited UFC Hall of Famer Demetrious Johnson to visit Dagestan. When Johnson raised safety concerns, Makhachev assured him the region was among the safest in the world. The exchange took a humorous turn when Johnson said he would need to consult his wife before committing to the trip.

Makhachev’s reaction was one of amused disbelief. The Dagestani champion, laughing, suggested that a fighter of Johnson’s stature should not be asking for permission at all.

“Talk to wife? Talk to wife?” Makhachev said. “You’re the best fighter in the world. You have to tell her. But not ask.”

The remarks were delivered with evident humour, though they sit in stark contrast to Garry’s more earnest comments about female authority — a juxtaposition that has not gone unnoticed by fans ahead of their August showdown.

Makhachev will defend his welterweight title against Garry in the UFC 330 main event on August 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.