Makhachev Defeats Garry to Extend UFC Winning Streak to 17

Islam Makhachev retained the UFC welterweight championship on Saturday in Philadelphia, winning a unanimous decision against challenger Ian Machado Garry. The victory gave the Dagestani fighter his 17th straight win, matching Anderson Silva’s record for the longest winning streak in UFC history and making him the fifth athlete to defend titles in two weight divisions.

Garry proved competitive, outlanding Makhachev in total and significant strikes and maintaining pressure for all five rounds. > "If Garry had stepped on the gas a bit more in the later rounds as Makhachev struggled to land takedowns, we might've gotten another title-fight upset," UFC CEO Dana White said after the bout.

Makhachev’s performance was noted as less dominant than many of his previous fights, suggesting a potential opening for future challengers. Analysts highlighted that while the welterweight division presents new challenges, Makhachev’s consistency continues to fuel discussions about his place among the sport’s greatest.

In the co-main event, Mackenzie Dern secured her first strawweight title defense, defeating Gillian Robertson by decision after controlling most of the fight with grappling and striking. The win positions Dern for a potential matchup with former champion Zhang Weili, a bout many fans consider pivotal for the division.

Jalin Turner delivered a 39-second knockout of Kaue Fernandes, reinforcing his reputation as a top lightweight contender. Observers suggested future matchups against Benoit Saint-Denis or Rafael Fiziev could further clarify his standing in the 155-pound class.