UFC welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry’s biggest career victory was quickly overshadowed by a tense backstage confrontation with middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev on Saturday night in Qatar.
Garry, 28, had just earned a unanimous-decision win over former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad when he encountered Chimaev behind the scenes. Footage circulating online shows Garry congratulating Chimaev on helping corner Arman Tsarukyan in his successful return bout.
The exchange turned sour when Chimaev suddenly shoved Garry and shouted, «I’m gonna f*** you up,» prompting security to intervene.
Garry appeared taken aback, calling the outburst «childish» and telling Chimaev, «You’re meant to be a champion in this sport.»
The Irish fighter then redirected his attention toward Tsarukyan, congratulating him again as officials separated the pair.
Chimaev, sidelined with a foot injury until next year, is not expected to face Garry. Meanwhile, the Irish welterweight has strengthened his case for a title shot against champion Islam Makhachev following his high-profile win over Muhammad.
