According to the latest data from the promotion leadership, the Dagestani received a hand injury and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. This has already led to a shift in plans to defend the title.
"Yes, I heard about his injury. But I don't believe it. I don’t know what to believe anymore. I don't think he injured his hand in the previous fight against Della Maddalena. Maybe he hurt his hand while riding a horse? I feel like these are all excuses.
Makhachev doesn't want to fight me. I don't know what his problem is—psychological or physical. He does the same as all champions do once they get the belt. They try to do everything to keep their position. They suddenly stop performing and try to stay relevant without fights. When I become a champion—things will be different," Garry said in a video posted on Instagram.