Islam Makhachev reveals the one opponent who gave him a harder fight than Ian Machado Garry

Islam Makhachev says one man has given him a harder contest than Ian Machado Garry.

In a thrilling match-up this evening, the all-time great managed to overcome the threat posed by his rival at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

Islam Makhachev says Alexander Volkanovski gave him a tougher fight than Ian Machado Garry

In a brutal war of attrition, Islam Makhachev had to dig deep to triumph over Ian Machado Garry and maintain his place on the 155lbs throne.

After showcasing his superior grappling in the first round, the reigning champion detonated a thunderous head kick in the second segment to drop his rival to the canvas.

WOW: Scariest fighter outside of the UFC ruthlessly knocked out in shocking upset

In a testament to his awe-inspiring self-belief, the Irishman battled his way back into the contest, winning the third and pushing the pound-for-pound number one close in the fourth.

Consequently, in the final five minutes, Makhachev had to really show what champions are made of, dragging Machado Garry to the ground to wrestle his way to a unanimous decision win in a very tough battle.

However, it wasn’t his hardest challenge, with the 34-year-old claiming Alexander Volkanovski was his toughest day at the office.

When asked the question during his post-fight interview, Makhachev responded: “Oh, let’s see, maybe in Australia, the first one, that was very hard.”

Former Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev teammate says who is better

Makhachev is now well and truly up there with Khabib Nurmagomedov as one of the best to have ever graced the cage.

With both men having dazzled fans, the combat sports community often debates which of the formidable athletes would’ve come out on top in a fantasy fight.

Fascinatingly, a UFC icon who trained with Nurmagomedov and Makhachev says one is better.

Featured Image Credit: Getty