Overview
- Ian Machado Garry defeated former champion Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision in Doha and immediately demanded a shot at Islam Makhachev’s welterweight title.
- Islam Makhachev praised Garry’s streak but said the Irishman “didn’t surprise” him, reiterated a preference for Kamaru Usman, and indicated a decision on his next opponent should come within about two weeks.
- Arman Tsarukyan submitted Dan Hooker in round two of the main event to reaffirm his status as the No. 1 lightweight contender and press for a bout with champion Ilia Topuria.
- Viral footage showed a backstage confrontation between middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev and Garry that ended without punches, with Chimaev later saying he shoved Garry over perceived disrespect.
- Chimaev said he will undergo a foot operation that is expected to sideline him until around April 2026, as broadcast voices including Jon Anik and Michael Bisping publicly argued Garry has earned a title shot.