Ian Machado Garry is aiming to flip the script when he meets Islam Makhachev in the UFC 330 main event on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
Garry, who owns a 17-1 professional record and is 10-1 in the UFC, is set to headline opposite Makhachev, a 28-1 standout with a 17-1 UFC mark who will attempt to break the UFC record for most consecutive victories.
Pointing to recent upsets at the top of the sport, Garry referenced Sean Strickland’s split decision win over Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328 to claim the middleweight title. "If people think when Sean Strickland goes out and beats Khamzat Chimaev and upsets the apple cart, and no one expected, no one can sit here and think that it's impossible that I can beat Islam Makhachev," Garry said.
The Irish contender has described himself as a dangerous and complete opponent for the champion and is widely viewed as a big underdog. "If anything, I'm a far more dangerous threat. I'm far more complete and I have way, way, way more ways of winning that fight. I am the most dangerous opponent for Islam Makhachev, and it's my job to go out and prove that on Aug. 15."
Garry also highlighted what he believes separates him in the matchup: "My mindset, my vision, and my fight IQ," he said. "Three things that can't be taught. You either have them or you don't."
