Ian Garry names only opponent that makes sense for him, and it's not Islam Makhachev

Ian Garry has outlined his path back to a UFC welterweight title shot, naming unbeaten Michael Morales as the only opponent that makes sense for him at this stage of his career.

Garry lost his welterweight title bid to reigning champion Islam Makhachev via unanimous decision at UFC 330 in August. Rather than demand an immediate rematch, the Irishman believes defeating Morales would strengthen his case for a second title opportunity. "For me, there's only one fight that makes sense right now," Garry told Eze Talks Sports. "That's Michael Morales. When I beat him, I'm the only one who deserves a title shot, even though me and Islam have just fought."

Garry's strategic thinking centers on the evolving title picture. Carlos Prates, who holds a loss to Garry, is positioned as the next challenger for Makhachev's belt. Garry believes a decisive victory over unbeaten Morales would create two compelling rematch scenarios. "Whether Islam wins, whether Carlos Prates wins the next fight, it's two massive rematches," he explained. "If I go out there and finish Michael Morales and get my hand raised, it's undeniable that I'm back up there for a title shot."

By targeting Morales—an Ecuadorian 170-pounder with an undefeated record—Garry aims to position himself as the division's most deserving contender regardless of the Makhachev-Prates outcome, making an airtight case for his return to championship contention.