Ian Machado Garry, despite not participating in the latest UFC Fight Night, has remained a topic during discussions with UFC CEO Dana White. White addressed previous statements he made following Garry’s loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330, where Makhachev’s UFC Welterweight Championship was contested.
White, along with Makhachev, had criticized Machado Garry’s lack of aggression. They believed his approach focused too much on showing respect rather than securing a win. White clarified his stance during a media interaction, correcting a reporter’s paraphrasing of his words.
“I didn’t say I’d like for him to annihilate [Makhachev] in the fifth round,” White explained. “What I expressed was that when you reach this level, after years of dedication, it’s crucial to seize the moment. Ian Garry did well in the first four rounds, but in the fifth, it appeared he wanted to make peace over pursuing victory,” White commented following the UFC Fight Night: Hernandez vs. Rodrigues.
“Congratulate him when they put the belt on you. Ian might never have another chance and may not face Islam again,” said White.
White emphasized he was not disparaging Garry, acknowledging his respectful demeanor but emphasizing the importance of aggression during the fight. Makhachev ultimately won by unanimous decision, retaining his title and agreeing with White’s perspective on the match at UFC 330.
Despite the critiques, Garry’s fighting skills continue to be praised. With 17 wins out of 19 matches, his competency in MMA is widely recognized. The UFC Meta rankings list Garry as the No. 2 welterweight fighter, ahead of Carlos Prates. Interestingly, Garry secured a victory against Prates in April 2025 at UFC on ESPN.
White has not ruled out future title shots for Garry but highlighted the missed opportunity against Makhachev. This victory over Prates suggests the potential for Garry to earn another championship match.
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