Ian Machado Garry calls Michael Morales ‘only fight that makes sense right now’

Ian Machado Garry has identified his next opponent: undefeated welterweight Michael Morales. Speaking to Eze Talks Sports, Garry argued that Morales represents the logical next step in his pursuit of another UFC title shot, following his loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 330.

Garry's reasoning is straightforward. With Makhachev likely to face Carlos Prates next—a rematch that would take time to arrange—Garry believes a decisive victory over Morales would put him back in undeniable contention for the belt. "When I beat him, I'm the only one who deserves a title shot," Garry said. "I go out there and I finish Michael Morales, get my hand raised, it's undeniable that I'm right back up there for the title shot."

Moreles, 19-0 with a perfect 7-0 UFC record, hasn't fought since knocking out Sean Brady in the first round last November. Garry praised his potential opponent as one of the best strikers in the sport, describing the matchup as a high-level clash between two elite fighters. "He's long, he's tall, he's confident, and he should be," Garry noted. "Two of the best strikers on the planet going head to head."

Garry's record stands at 17-2 following his Makhachev loss. Although he suffered a unanimous decision defeat, one judge scored it 48-47 in Makhachev's favor, suggesting the bout was competitive. Reflecting on the fight, Garry believes it was closer than the scorecards indicated and remains eager for a rematch down the line. For now, however, his focus remains on building his case for another title opportunity by dismantling the undefeated Morales.