Ian Machado Garry earns high praise from Conor McGregor as well as fans despite losing decision to Shavkat Rakhmonov: "Future is right"

Ian Machado Garry's performance against Shavkat Rakhmonov drew plaudits from the MMA community, including Conor McGregor. McGregor, along with many expressed his admiration for his fellow countryman, who put up a tough fight against Rakhmonov.

Garry locked horns with Rakhmonov in a welterweight title eliminator bout in the co-main event of UFC 310, which took place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. 'Nomad' was originally scheduled to challenge Belal Muhammad for the UFC gold, however, their bout was scrapped after the reigning champion suffered from a bone infection in his left foot.

It was an entertaining contest throughout, with Garry displaying his outstanding takedown defense. Eventually, Rakhmonov took the 27-year-old to the ground in the later parts of the fight.

However, Garry turned the situation around and attempted a rear naked choke in the last round. But Rakhmonov demonstrated his resilience and managed to get out of the tight hold. After 25 minutes of intense action, Rakhmonov prevailed via unanimous decision.

The judges scored the contest (48-47 x3) in favor of the Kazakhstan native. MMA journalist Ariel Helwani took to X and shared the result, writing:

''Official: Shavkat Rakhmonov def. Ian Machado Garry via UD (48-47 x3). First time Rakhmonov goes the distance. Now 19-0.''

Fans soon rushed to the comments section to share their reactions.

One fan wrote:

''Ian lost 0 stock, if anything only proved he belongs at the top of the division''

Another one stated:

''Great look for Ian, this loss levels him up. I think this win downgrades Shavkat a bit. He is no longer the buggy man…''

Other fans wrote:

''Despite the win Shavkats stock plummeted and Gary’s stock went up''

''Ian proved he’s legit. no shame in that performance''

Check out more reactions below:

Screenshots courtesy fan reactions to Ariel Helwani's X post

Following the fight, McGregor took to X and acknowledged Garry, writing:

''Very good fight! Well done Ian, future is right.''

Screenshot of Conor McGregor's X post