Dana White Rants Again About Ian Garry’s Octagon Behavior 7 Days After Islam Makhachev Title Fight

UFC CEO Dana White explains the reason behind criticizing Ian Garry's behavior after the UFC 330 title clash,

Dana White Rants Again About Ian Garry’s Octagon Behavior 7 Days After Islam Makhachev Title Fight

Dana White once again calls out Ian Garry's behavior at UFC 330 (via Yahoo Sports)

UFC CEO Dana White was clear about his stance on Ian Garry’s overly friendly behavior during his UFC 330 title fight. White believed the Irish challenger lacked the killer instinct needed to defeat a champion. He viewed the hugs, handshakes, and friendly exchanges as unnecessary during such a crucial bout.

Garry entered the biggest challenge of his UFC career when he faced Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. It marked his first UFC title fight and his opportunity to capture the welterweight championship. Makhachev ultimately defended his belt with a unanimous decision victory after five competitive rounds.

Throughout the fight, Garry repeatedly hugged Makhachev, shook his hand, and exchanged friendly gestures. The approach confused both White and Makhachev, who addressed it during the post-fight press conference. White has now doubled down following UFC Sacramento, again questioning the Irishman’s behavior.

I thought that Ian Garry did good work leading up to the fifth round, and I assume that was the game plan. And you want to come out and start hugging and shaking hands. Tell him how great he is when they’re putting the belt on you. He might not ever have that opportunity again, and probably will never get the opportunity at Islam again, who is going to go down as one of the all-time greats, if not the greatest. Every second of that round counts. Don’t waste 10 seconds telling this guy you love him.

Dana White via UFC Sacramento press conference

Before UFC 330, Garry wanted to change perceptions by dominating Makhachev and proving himself against the champion. His confidence was high throughout fight week, but many felt his competitive spirit was missing during the fight. White praised his demeanor while questioning his competitive drive.

We’ll see how it plays out. Again, I’m not trashing Ian. He’s a classy guy, he’s one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet. But be a nice guy when those five minutes are up, then you can be as classy as you want. You have five minutes to try to finish one of the greatest of all time and have that belt wrapped around your waist. From then, you can tell Islam you love him and how great he is and shake hands and hug him and take pictures with him, whatever you want to do.

Dana White via UFC Sacramento press conference

White’s comments appear more like advice for Garry on what to avoid in future title fights. The UFC CEO remains appreciative of the welterweight contender despite his recent criticism and continues to recognize his potential. His praise also shows White remains unfazed by Garry signing with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency.

Interestingly, White’s criticism after UFC 330 also earned praise from Ariel Helwani. The longtime MMA insider praised White for being blunt and direct rather than vague about his concerns with Garry. This stands out given Helwani’s recent criticism of White and suggestions that the UFC CEO had become less interested in the promotion.

Ian Garry has not directly responded to Dana White’s criticism but has reflected on his UFC 330 title fight loss. He acknowledged falling short of his own expectations and admitted the result would remain with him. The Irish welterweight has since focused on returning to the gym and getting back into the Octagon soon.

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Dana White Criticizes Ian Garry for Lacking ‘Killer Instinct’ After UFC 330 Loss to Islam Makhachev

Dana White boasts the whopping figures made by Contender Series graduates

Dana White’s Contender Series began on July 11, 2017, with its inaugural event held at The Ultimate Fighter Gym in Las Vegas. Kurt Holobaugh became one of the first fighters awarded a UFC contract after defeating Matt Bessette by first-round knockout. Boston Salmon also earned a contract after defeating Ricky Turcios.

The Contender Series has produced several major UFC stars and champions since launching in 2017. Sean O’Malley and Jamahal Hill both won UFC titles after earning contracts on the series. Carlos Ulberg is now the UFC light heavyweight champion, while several other graduates remain ranked contenders.

Dana White
Dana White (via X)

Over 333 fighters have been offered UFC contracts through DWCS during its first nine seasons. Recent graduates include Tommy McMillen and Magomed ‘Chanco’ Zaynukov, who both earned their places on the UFC roster. White has now revealed the enormous financial impact DWCS graduates have made since the series began in 2017.

I’ve got one for you [that] I wanted to share with you guys. This thing started in July 2017. From that date until today, the fighters who have made it into the UFC from the Contender Series have made $225.3 million. Talk about an opportunity.

Dana White told UFC media team

However, Dana White’s revelation has reignited the debate surrounding UFC fighter pay and athlete compensation.

The figure drew attention given the UFC’s current $12 billion valuation. Many viewed the amount as small compared with what the UFC could potentially pay fighters.

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