Ian Garry has wasted no time in strategizing his comeback to the cage, as he already has a specific date and opponent in his sights.
“The Future” had a tough fight against Michael “Venom” Page at UFC 303, grinding out a grappling-heavy decision after discovering how fast Page is on his feet. It wasn’t the kind of performance that improved Garry’s ranking in the minds of many fans, but he’s still looking to move onwards and upwards for his next fight.
“In December 2024, Garry expressed his desire on X (formerly Twitter) for an epic showdown between two undefeated champions. He called out Shavkat Rakhmonov, urging him to make it a reality.”
100% finish rate VS 53% finish rate. It won’t even be close if it happens @iangarryMMA https://t.co/nJaglUmnBp
— Shavkat “Nomad” Rakhmonov (@Rakhmonov1994) July 21, 2024
The UFC has a big pay-per-view event that’s expected to go down mid-December. It’s also rumored that Conor McGregor will make his long-awaited return against Michael Chandler on that date. We guess Ian Garry has also heard these rumors, which is why he’s angling to share a card with his hero.
As for Shavkat Rakhmonov, the No. 3 ranked welterweight has trained with Garry in the past and always seems perplexed then the brash young fighter calls him out.
Shavkat responded to Garry’s comment on social media, stating, “If it happens, Ian Garry, the difference in finish rates – 100% versus 53% – won’t even be close.”
Garry’s career has gotten a bit up-and-down as he continues to climb up the rankings. When things get tough, Ian reverts from a stylish striker to conservative tactician, willing to do whatever it takes to edge rounds for a victory. That led to UFC CEO Dana White suggesting his win over “MVP” should have been a draw.
After such a performance, does it seem wise for him to send the Irish prospect against Shavkat at the very top of the division? Garry keeps winning, even if it isn’t impressive, so perhaps there is some merit to it.
