Ian Garry isn’t giving up on his title shot aspirations any time soon.  Garry is considered among the frontrunners for a UFC welterweight title shot against Islam Makhachev. “The Future” has aimed multiple shots at Makhachev since the Dagestani star became the champion last year. Garry continues to callout Makhachev at regular intervals, while also slamming him for inactivity. Garry recently called out the champion for “princess” behavior while rallying for a title shot. “First you say you have a hand injury, Dana said August, you’re saying July - I’ve been ready since you last turned me down in May,” Garry wrote on Instagram. “We’re all waiting on you princess.”

Makhachev is seemingly open to defending his title against Garry. The champion hinted that he is healthy and waiting for a contract. “Don’t worry about my injuries,” Makhachev responded. “I’m ready at any time. I’m waiting for the contract.”

Don’t worry about my injuries. I’m ready at any time. I’m waiting for the contract https://t.co/KSopvXw3L2— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) April 24, 2026

Makhachev (28-1) won the title with a dominant unanimous decision over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 this past November. While rumors suggest that Makhachev was initially being considered to defend his title against Ilia Topuria at the White House in June, that didn’t materialize. While Dana White said that Makhachev is out with a hand injury, the champion never confirmed the report. Meanwhile, Makhachev suggested that he would likely defend his title in July. However, White said that it would likely be in August.  Garry (17-1) is not the only contender chasing a title shot against Makhachev. Undefeated Ecuadorian Michael Morales also considers himself a frontrunner for the next title shot against Makhachev. Meanwhile, surging knockout artist Carlos Prates is scheduled to fight Maddalena at UFC Perth on May 2, with the winner definitely in a spot to make a case for the next title shot.