Garry Names Only Fighter Deserving Title Shot After UFC 330

Ian Machado Garry has already decided who deserves the next welterweight title shot if he beats Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 this Saturday.

Garry, who challenges Makhachev for the 170-pound strap in Philadelphia as a sizable underdog, told reporters at media day that Carlos Prates is the only fighter in the division who has earned a crack at the belt. "There is only one person who has earned or deserves the title shot after this fight and it's Carlos Prates," he said, per BJPenn.com. "All the other guys haven't done enough."

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Why Garry Backs Prates Over Makhachev Rematch

The Irishman pointed to Prates' recent run of two finishes against previously unfinished opponents, calling the performances insane. Garry also noted he defeated Prates by decision over five rounds on three weeks' notice, suggesting a full camp would produce an even more dominant result. An immediate rematch with Makhachev would make sense if Garry wins, but he believes the Brazilian has done more than any other contender to warrant consideration.

Garry acknowledged that the nature of his victory Saturday could shape what comes next. A quick stoppage might not demand a sequel, while a competitive war similar to Makhachev's trilogy with Alexander Volkanovski probably would. "Let's get through Saturday night, let's get the win and then we'll see in what fashion I get the victory," Garry said. He added that he would not oppose running it back with Makhachev if the fight warrants it.

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Garry enters UFC 330 with a 17-1 record and consecutive wins over Belal Muhammad and Prates. The card takes place Saturday in Philadelphia with Makhachev defending his welterweight title in the main event.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Ian Machado Garry reveals the ‘only’ person who deserves the next title shot after he becomes champ at UFC