Ian Garry accuses Michael Morales of avoiding him, then they agree to fight

Ian Garry and Michael Morales have agreed to fight on November 28 in Saudi Arabia, settling a dispute that began when the Irish welterweight accused his unbeaten counterpart of dodging the matchup.

Garry, coming off a decision loss to Islam Makhachev in his UFC title bid at UFC 330, is eager to climb back toward another shot at gold. He grew frustrated when told Morales was unavailable, noting the contradiction that Morales had made himself available as a backup for title fights but claimed he couldn't commit to facing Garry before year's end. "Looks like someone is avoiding me," Garry wrote in a direct message. "Talk all that sh*t online then don't agree to fight?"

Morales quickly countered via social media, making clear he would fight anytime: "My son, what are you talking about? I fight whenever you want I just want a contract and that's it I'll kick your *ss." When Garry proposed Saudi Arabia on November 28, Morales accepted immediately.

While both fighters have agreed to terms, the UFC has not yet officially announced the matchup. A victory for Garry over the undefeated Morales would serve as a crucial title eliminator at welterweight, as Carlos Prates is widely viewed as the next challenger to Makhachev's crown. For Morales, a win would further solidify his case for a future title opportunity while remaining unbeaten.