Ian Machado Garry isn’t shy about his ambitions. After months of climbing the welterweight rankings and serving as the backup fighter for UFC 315’s title bout, the undefeated Irish contender says he’s ready for his shot at gold. But if Islam Makhachev comes calling, Garry’s willing to wait.
“I’ll fight Jack unless Islam moves up”
Garry was in Montreal as the backup for the UFC 315 title fight between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena. After watching Della Maddalena win the belt, Garry didn’t hold back in his post-fight analysis.
“He was sloppy,” Garry told reporters. “Technically gifted, sure. But not sharp. If that’s what the champ looks like, I’ll box his ears off.”
But Garry isn’t interested in skipping the line if Makhachev decides to jump weight classes. The reigning lightweight champion has flirted with a move to welterweight — and if he does, Garry says it’s only right to let him go first.
“If Islam comes up to challenge, we step aside,” Garry said. “He’s earned that right. As welterweights, we respect greatness when it knocks.”
Clarity, but not ego
At 27, Garry is unbeaten and climbing fast. But what’s striking is the balance he maintains — confidence without arrogance. His comments weren’t just bravado; they reflected an awareness of how the sport works at the highest level.
“Look, I know what I’ve done. I know where I stand,” he said. “But this division moves. Timing is everything. If it’s my turn, I’ll be ready. If it’s Islam’s turn first, I’ll be watching.”
The three-fight plan
Garry’s roadmap is already clear in his mind: win the title, defend it against Makhachev if the fight happens, and then avenge the one blemish on his otherwise perfect professional record his 2023 loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov in a non-UFC bout.
“That’s the trilogy for me,” he explained. “Step one: take the belt. Step two: defend it against the lightweight GOAT. Step three: settle unfinished business.”
The title picture ahead
For now, Della Maddalena holds the crown. But with Muhammad, Garry, Makhachev, and others looming, the division may see more shakeups before the end of the year. UFC President Dana White has yet to announce the next matchup, but speculation is mounting.
What’s clear is this: Ian Garry isn’t waiting quietly. He’s training, speaking up, and when needed showing deference without disappearing.
What makes Garry dangerous isn’t just talent
It’s his timing. His sense of the moment. His ability to read the sport like a chessboard, two or three moves ahead. He doesn’t just want to fight — he wants the legacy to match.
“I’m not just here to win,” he said. “I’m here to beat the best at their best. And if that means waiting for Islam, I’ll wait. But not for long.”
