Garry Calls Out Morales After Makhachev Loss

Ian Machado Garry has identified his next target after falling short against Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 last month.

Garry told Eze Talks Sports he wants undefeated welterweight Michael Morales in his return to the Octagon. "For me, there's only one fight that makes sense right now," he said, per Bloody Elbow. "That's Michael Morales. When I beat him, I'm the only one who deserves a title shot."

Why Garry Sees Morales As His Path Back To The Title

The Irish welterweight, who lost a unanimous decision to Makhachev after beating Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad, believes a finish of Morales makes his case undeniable. "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," he said. Morales has not fought since stopping Sean Brady at UFC 322 last year and carries a 19-0 record with recent wins over Gilbert Burns, Neil Magny, and Jake Matthews.

Makhachev is expected to defend against Prates next, which would leave Garry on the outside looking in unless he scores a statement win. Garry maintains he can beat Makhachev in a rematch, but the promotion will likely require at least one victory before granting him another crack at the belt.

Morales has not publicly responded to the callout. No date or venue has been announced for Garry's return.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Ian Machado Garry calls out surging welterweight after Islam Makhachev loss