“Prates is awesome!” Ian Garry excited about SECOND dangerous short-notice matchup to prove he’s best in the world

UFC welterweight star Ian Garry shares his excitement to fight Carlos Prates on short notice in the main event of Kansas City fight card.

“Prates is awesome!” Ian Garry excited about SECOND dangerous short-notice matchup to prove he’s best in the world

Ian Garry is ready to fight Carlos Prates next (via Imago/X)

Ian Garry remains one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC welterweight division, showcasing skill, confidence, and determination. Despite initial fan support, controversies outside the octagon shifted public perception, affecting his popularity. However, his unwavering focus on fighting ensures he’s always prepared to face any opponent, proving his resilience and commitment.

The main event of UFC Kansas City on 26 April between Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree got scrapped due to injury concerns. In order to save the card, both Prates and Garry signed the last-minute contract and are ready for the bout. This is the Irishman’s second short-notice bout after facing Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310. Following the announcement, Garry expressed excitement about the matchup.

I’m excited. The UFC go ‘we need someone, who do we call’. You call me. Why? Because I’m a real fighter who wants to fight the best in the world…Carlos Prates is awesome, but this is my world. I love to fight.

Ian Garry via Instagram 
YouTube video

Garry has often proven his readiness by accepting short-notice fights, showcasing his confidence, adaptability, and willingness to challenge himself anytime. His last fight against top welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov was a short-notice fight, and Garry impressed everyone. Garry’s fearless approach to last-minute bouts demonstrates his hunger for success and eagerness to cement his legacy in MMA.

The rising Irish fighter faced heavy criticism due to controversies surrounding his wife and heated clashes with outspoken rival Colby Covington in public. His brash personality and frequent feuds with fellow fighters only added to the backlash, making him a divisive figure. However, his willingness to accept short-notice fights has slowly shifted the narrative, making him a true contender.

Ian Garry was too close to earn his title shot 

At UFC 310, Belal Muhammad was supposed to defend his welterweight title against Shavkat Rakhmonov, but got injured. As a result, Ian Garry stepped in to save the fight and gave a close fight that nobody expected. Garry’s speed and footwork tested Rakhmonov’s wrestling pressure, but the Kazakh fighter had the advantage with the control time. 

Ian Garry is eager to get his hands on the title shot
Ian Garry is eager to get his hands on the title shot (via X)

Ultimately, Rakhmonov’s control time proved too much, securing a decisive victory and reinforcing his status as a top welterweight contender. However, before that fight, Rakhmonov was on a finishing streak, but couldn’t do the same against Garry. Many fans mentioned that the Irishman might have exposed the title contender, and according to Garry, he was very close. 

I went out there against the scariest man and I nearly fu**** finished him. That shows that I have a championship mentality. 25 minutes I stood in there across of him and he didn’t have anything more than I had. I stopped every single one of his takedowns that shows the level of talent I have.

Ian Garry via UFC 310 post-fight presser 
YouTube video

Garry utilizes a slick striking style, relying on precise footwork, sharp counters, and fluid combinations to outclass opponents in exchanges. His defensive awareness and movement make him elusive, allowing him to dictate range while avoiding unnecessary damage inside the octagon. Additionally, his growing grappling skills complement his striking, making him a dangerous threat in welterweight competition.

Can Ian Garry become the future welterweight champion?

The welterweight division is filled with absolute killers, especially wrestlers with good striking and pressure fighting. The champion, Belal Muhammad, is a true example of this, and his beat down of Leon Edwards was dominating. It showed that being a top-notch striker with no takedown defense won’t work in the welterweight division. 

Can Ian Garry win the belt
Can Ian Garry win the belt (via X)

Other top welterweight contenders like Sean Brady are also similar kinds of fighters and this gives Ian Garry an opportunity. With his wrestling prowess and ability to evade, the Irishman can possibly earn a title shot and win the belt. However, it won’t be that easy, and jumping on short short-notice fight might not always help him.

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