Doha:Ian Machado Garry came close to engaging in a second fight on Saturday night – but this one didn’t take place inside the Octagon. Moments after securing a convincing three-round win over former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar, the Irish star found himself in a tense backstage confrontation with UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev.
While moving backstage, Machado Garry approached Chimaev to congratulate him for cornering teammate Arman Tsarukyan, who had just earned a submission win over Dan Hooker in the main event — his first fight in over 18 months. But the exchange quickly turned sour.
Viral footage shows Chimaev responding to Garry’s greeting with several forceful pats on the back, prompting security to step between the two.
Machado Garry tried to calm the situation:
“He’s not gonna fight me. He’s good. He’s the champ. Don’t worry.”
However, things escalated again when Garry asked Chimaev, “What’s wrong?”
Chimaev fired back:
“I’m gonna f— you up, b—-.”
More security rushed in to prevent a full-blown altercation. Garry could be heard criticising the champion’s behaviour:
“That’s just childish. You’re meant to be a champion… Your friend just won, don’t ruin his victory. Arman, congratulations.”
Fortunately, both fighters and their teams dispersed without any punches thrown.
Machado Garry Blasts Chimaev in Post-Fight Press Conference
Speaking about the heated moment later at the UFC Qatar post-fight press conference, Machado Garry didn’t hold back. He said Chimaev’s reaction reflected insecurity rather than dominance.
“Do you want the honest truth? It’s little d— energy,” Garry said.
“You’re the champion of the world. No one needs to see you be tough.
You don’t need these anger management issues. Be a man.”
Machado Garry, now streaking toward a welterweight title shot, appears eager to move past the confrontation — but the incident has already ignited buzz about a potential future showdown between the two stars.
