Ian Machado Garry has already mapped out an ambitious future for himself, with the Irish welterweight targeting a decade of dominance as he prepares for his first UFC title opportunity.
Garry, 28, enters UFC 330 with a 17-1 professional record and a 10-1 mark inside the UFC, riding a two-fight winning streak.
His most recent victory came against former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad in November 2025, following his decision win over Carlos Prates earlier that year.
Now, “The Future” is one win away from becoming Ireland’s second UFC champion when he challenges Islam Makhachev for the welterweight title Saturday at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
Becoming the face of Irish MMA, however, is something Garry admits will be difficult with Conor McGregor still occupying that position in the country’s combat sports history.
“Being the face of Irish MMA is going to be a tough ask when you have such an iconic fighter from the same country like Conor McGregor,” Garry said during UFC 330 media day.
Still, “The Future” believes his consistency since entering the UFC has already earned him the right to make a claim.
“Since I’ve entered the UFC, I’ve been the only one flying the flag. I’ve been the only one getting the wins in the UFC since then. Many have tried, many have failed. But I’ve been the guy consistently showing up and getting wins at the highest level of the sport,” Garry said.
“I am the new face of Irish MMA, but I don’t think I’ll ever be the face of Irish MMA with all of these goals I wish to achieve.”
Those goals extend far beyond Saturday night.
I’m talking about a decade of domination. I’m 28 years of age,” Garry said, pointing to Alexander Volkanovski and Justin Gaethje still competing for major titles at 38.
“I have 10 years of domination in this sport against the next best opponent every single time.”
Garry also wants his eventual title reign to be built around consistently facing the most deserving challengers.
“That’s my job as the champion, to make sure the rightful contender gets the shot every single time.”
