Ian Machado Garry's Path Back to UFC Title Picture Outlined by Top Coach

Ian Machado Garry has a clear, if challenging, route back to the top of the UFC welterweight division according to one of the sport's most respected trainers. The Irish contender's recent unanimous decision loss to champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 in August was a setback, but not a career-ender in the eyes of the champion's own coach.

Javier Mendez, the longtime head coach at American Kickboxing Academy who trains Makhachev, believes Garry's future is bright. He pointed to the 28 year old's strong performances even in defeat, specifically his late surges against both Makhachev and in a prior points loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov. Mendez stated that if Garry maintains his mental strength and continues his current trajectory, a return to the title picture is inevitable. The coach's analysis suggests the foundation is there; Garry just needs to stay the course.

The division is moving forward, with Makhachev already eyeing his next defense. The champion has expressed a firm desire to fight before Ramadan begins in February 2027. Reports have circulated that a bout against Brazilian contender Carlos Prates is being targeted to headline UFC 336 on January 30 in Toronto. Prates earned his shot with a knockout win over former champion Jack Della Maddalena earlier this year. However, negotiations are still ongoing, and Prates's manager has called talk of the January date premature, confirming only that discussions are continuing.

This potential booking shows the competitive landscape Garry must re-enter. A new challenger is poised to step up, meaning the Irish fighter will need a significant win to jump back into the number one contender slot. The welterweight title scene remains one of the UFC's most active and unpredictable weight classes.

Garry's two professional losses have come against elite competition, and both were competitive decisions. He pushed the undefeated Rakhmonov before falling short on the scorecards. Then, in his first championship opportunity, he went the full 25 minute distance with Makhachev, a dominant champion who had just moved up from lightweight. These facts are central to Mendez's optimistic outlook. They show Garry belongs at the highest level, even if he hasn't yet broken through. His next fight, which has yet to be announced, will be massively important for his momentum.

• Key Takeaway: Coach Javier Mendez believes Ian Machado Garry can return to title contention with maintained mental fortitude.
• Key Takeaway: Garry's last fight was a unanimous decision loss to champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 in August.
• Key Takeaway: Makhachev is reportedly in talks to defend his title against Carlos Prates in early 2027, though the bout is not finalized.
• Key Takeaway: At 28, Garry's competitive showings against top-tier foes provide a solid base for his rebuilding process.

The road back starts with one fight. For Ian Machado Garry, the focus now shifts to securing a high-profile matchup against another ranked welterweight, applying the lessons from his championship experience, and proving his coach's confidence is well-placed.