Coach's Bold Claim: Ian Machado Garry Deserves the Spotlight!
Diego Lima, the head coach of rising star Ian Machado Garry, makes a compelling case for his fighter's title shot. After Garry's impressive 10-1 record in the UFC octagon, Lima argues that Garry should be the next challenger for the welterweight crown against Islam Makhachev. But here's where it gets controversial: Lima dismisses the idea of former champion Kamaru Usman's potential return, despite Usman's recent win.
Lima's rationale? The division is stacked with talent, and Garry has proven himself time and again. From his victories over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad to his strategic intelligence and ability to sell fights, Garry checks all the boxes. And this is the part most people miss: Garry's marketability is a significant factor in Lima's eyes, believing it's a crucial aspect of the fight game.
Looking ahead, Lima envisions a potential matchup between rising talents Prates and Michael Morales, but the UFC's plans may differ. He also shares his thoughts on Makhachev's recent performance, praising his evolution as a smarter fighter. Lima's analysis of the fight is a must-read for fans, offering a unique perspective on what made it so captivating.
As the UFC ponders its next move for Garry, Lima keeps busy preparing Charles Oliveira for a highly-anticipated rematch. He also provides updates on the team's other fighters, including Allan Nascimento, Daniel Santos, and Gabriel Santos, all set for action in the coming months.
With a successful 2025 in the rearview, Lima confidently declares, 'We're going to multiply that in 2026.' Will the UFC grant Garry his title shot? Only time will tell, but Lima's advocacy for his fighter is a testament to Garry's potential and the team's ambition.
