Ian Machado Garry believes he is next in line for UFC gold, and he isn’t hiding it.
The rising welterweight contender has continued climbing the rankings with one goal in mind: becoming world champion. Aside from a competitive loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov, Garry has looked sharp throughout his UFC run, steadily building momentum as one of the division’s most confident contenders.
Now, speculation continues to grow that Garry could be the first challenger for Islam Makhachev’s UFC welterweight title defence later this year. While the promotion has yet to make an official announcement, Garry appears convinced the opportunity is close.
In a recent Instagram post, Garry offered a blunt update on where negotiations stand and slipped in a subtle jab at the champion.
“I’m ready… He needs more time. Imagine being the number one pound-for-pound fighter on the planet and needing MORE time,” Garry wrote.
The comment immediately fueled discussion among fans, many of whom already believe the Irish contender is positioning himself as Makhachev’s next opponent.
Garry has never shied away from calling his shot. Confidence has been central to his rise, and he continues to present himself as the fresh challenge the division needs.
Islam Makhachev captured the welterweight title with a dominant decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, instantly reshaping the championship picture at 170 pounds.
Since then, two primary names have emerged as potential challengers: Ian Machado Garry and undefeated contender Michael Morales.
With former champion Kamaru Usman also in the conversation, the title picture remains crowded. Still, Garry’s recent activity and growing popularity keep him firmly in the mix.
The 28-year-old owns a 10-1 UFC record and currently rides a two-fight winning streak. His only defeat came on short notice against Shavkat Rakhmonov a performance that many observers viewed as a moral victory given how competitive the bout was.
Victories over Carlos Prates and former champion Belal Muhammad have since reinforced Garry’s championship credentials.
Fans recently noticed Garry traveling to Georgia, widely interpreted as a move to sharpen his wrestling, a crucial adjustment if he hopes to neutralize Makhachev’s elite grappling.
The preparation suggests Garry is treating the matchup as inevitable rather than hypothetical. For now, the UFC has remained silent on the official challenger. But Garry’s message is clear: he believes he has done enough to earn the shot.
“I’m ready,” Garry declared and until the UFC announces otherwise, the welterweight division will continue watching to see if the outspoken contender gets his moment against the pound-for-pound king.
