Diego Lima Defends Ian Machado Garry Over Islam Makhachev Hugs at UFC 330

Ian Machado Garry faced criticism for repeatedly hugging Islam Makhachev during his decision loss in their UFC 330 title fight in August in Philadelphia. Makhachev stated immediately following the bout that he did not understand why Garry embraced him multiple times inside the Octagon. However, Garry's head coach, Diego Lima, pushed back against the backlash.

Lima told MMA Fighting that he did not even notice the hugs from the corner during the bout and only addressed it after it became a talking point. Comparing Garry to fellow Lima pupil Charles Oliveira, the coach noted that Oliveira routinely hugs opponents at the start and end of rounds. Lima emphasized that Garry is a polite and respectful family man, adding that Makhachev is also an opponent who consistently shows mutual respect.

Reflecting on the title fight, Lima stated that the gestures had no impact on the outcome and expressed pride in Garry's performance against one of the sport's most dominant champions. Lima noted that while they were mindful of facing the division's top fighter, Garry fought well and could have potentially secured a knockout had they been slightly more aggressive.