TLDR
- Ian Machado Garry wants to fight Michael Morales next after losing to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330
- Garry believes defeating Morales would earn him another title shot in the welterweight division
- The Irish fighter dismissed online critics, saying he only receives positive reactions in person
- Garry earned his title shot with wins over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad before facing Makhachev
- The 28-year-old plans to compete at the highest level for the next 10 years to prove himself as one of the best
Sources: yardbarker.com | sports.yahoo.com | mmasucka.com
Ian Machado Garry has named his preferred opponent for his return to the UFC octagon following his decision loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330. The Irish welterweight says only one matchup makes sense right now.
Garry told reporters that Michael Morales is the fight he wants next. “For me, there’s only one fight that makes sense right now. That’s Michael Morales,” Garry said.
The 28-year-old fighter believes a victory over Morales would put him right back in title contention. “When I beat him, I’m the only one who deserves a title shot, even though me and Islam have just fought,” Garry explained.
Garry earned his title shot at UFC 330 with wins over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad. Despite falling short against Makhachev, he remains confident in his abilities and sees a clear path forward.
Garry’s Path Back to Championship Status
The Irish fighter outlined his strategy for getting back into title contention. He said that defeating Morales would create compelling rematch scenarios regardless of who holds the belt.
Ian Machado Garry says he was more dangerous on the feet during his fight against Islam Makhachev 👀
"I was more dangerous on the feet. I was able to stop his grappling. I felt like I did everything well.
But at the end of the day, he did what he needed to do to win the fight… pic.twitter.com/j6XpPyFpcf
— MMA Pros Pick (@MMA_PROS_PICK_) September 7, 2026
“Whether Islam wins, whether Carlos Prates wins the next fight, it’s two massive rematches,” Garry stated. “If I go out there and finish Michael Morales and get my hand raised, it’s undeniable that I’m back up there for a title shot.”
Makhachev is expected to defend his welterweight title against Prates in his next fight. Garry believes he could beat Makhachev in a rematch but wants to secure another win first.
Garry also addressed the criticism he has received online, particularly after his loss to Makhachev. Some fans criticized his respectful gestures during the bout.
Fighter Responds to Online Critics
Speaking with Eze Obasi ETS, Garry dismissed his online critics. He claimed that people treat him differently in person compared to social media.
“Nobody says anything to my face. What you speak about, it’s not real,” Garry said. “In person, I’m met with love and joy everywhere I go in the world.”
The welterweight contender said he has traveled all over the world and has never been confronted with negative comments face-to-face. He believes the online hate does not reflect reality.
This is not the first time Garry has addressed online criticism. Before his fight with Makhachev, he called online haters “fake.”
In a recent interview with DAZN, Garry discussed his long-term goals in the UFC. The fighter said he plans to compete at the highest level for the next 10 years.
“Obviously, annoyed by the result, that’s the fight game. We get back on the horse, we go again,” Garry told DAZN. “Because I’ve got 10 years in this sport to be at the highest level, fight the baddest men in the world, beat them, and prove that I’m one of the baddest men walking the planet.”
Garry said he is proud of his performance despite the loss. He expressed his eagerness to get back inside the octagon and prove himself.
The 28-year-old remains focused on becoming a UFC champion. He wants to be recognized as one of the best fighters in the world over the next decade.
Garry has not received an official response from the UFC or from Michael Morales regarding the potential matchup. Morales is currently a rising contender in the welterweight division.
