Ian Garry ignores prospects and claims he is close to the title after losing his unbeaten record at UFC 310

Ian Garry is currently ranked seventh in the welterweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @iangarry

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Still reeling from his loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 , Ian Machado Garry isn't letting his optimism fade. Considered one of the biggest names in the welterweight division (up to 77,1kg), the Irishman emphasized his certainty that he's close to the title even amidst the rise of new prospects and the loss of his undefeated record as an MMA fighter.

“I know in my heart and soul, and I see that the fans are giving me a lot of love and a lot of respect for this fight. In my opinion, I am absolutely the second greatest competitor in the world. So, could I see the UFC calling me as a replacement (for the title)? Yes. Do I think that's realistic? Potentially. However, we'll see when the events come. If they want it, if they need it. I'll say one thing: I'll be ready if they want me. As I always am. Ready, prepared for anyone, anywhere,” Ian declared in an interview with MMA Knockout.

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Currently ranked seventh in the category, the fighter expressed discontent with his current position and proclaimed himself the second greatest welterweight.

“The way I look at it is that the fight with Shavkat was about being the number one contender in the world and going out and fighting for the belt afterwards. If I’m not the number one contender, which Shavkat raised his hand and has now cemented himself, I’m definitely number two. That’s how I look at it. Because after that performance, there’s no way to say that I’m one of the best in the division. So it doesn’t matter what the rankings want to say officially. It’s okay,” he concluded.

Ian Garry in a duel against S. Rakhmonov at UFC 310. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC Espanol

Called in at the last minute to fight at UFC 310 , Ian Garry squandered the opportunity to become the next title challenger in the division. Considered a huge underdog, the Irishman surprised everyone and made Rakhmonov work hard for his victory. The date and next opponent for Belal Muhammad , the current welterweight champion, have not yet been announced.

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