An unexpected contract tweak could give Ian Machado Garry the chance to pull off what he called the “biggest heist in UFC history.” Garry hinted that he negotiated a huge opportunity before his latest fight.
Ian Machado Garry Sheds Light on Contract Tweak for Potential Title Shot
Garry is coming off a unanimous decision victory against Carlos Prates on April 26, 2025. During his post-fight Octagon interview, Garry asserted that he’d like to be the backup/replacement fighter for the upcoming UFC welterweight title fight between current champion Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 on May 10, 2025.
At the UFC Kansas City post-fight press conference, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed Garry as the official backup for the UFC 315 title fight.
Later, on “The Ariel Helwani Show,” Garry said he’s saved UFC cards in the past by stepping in on short notice, and now feels he’s next in line for the title—either at UFC 315 if someone drops out, or against the winner later.
Hinting at a key contract detail tied to his fight with Prates, Garry said, “I negotiated it into my contract that when I win, I get the opportunity to go and be the backup [for the title fight].”
Garry also pointed out that top contender Shavkat Rakhmonov is sidelined with injury. He predicted Della Maddalena won’t beat Muhammad, which would keep Muhammad on top when Garry gets his shot. He added that he’s now the most exciting fighter in the division.
Helwani asked Garry if he wanted to fight at UFC 315, just two weeks after his five-round battle with Pirates. Garry said yes and confirmed he was heading to Las Vegas to recover and prep for a quick turnaround.
He said he’s focused on recovery, rest, and nutrition to be ready to make weight and fight if needed at UFC 315 in Canada. Regarding the potential title shot, Garry said, “Because if anybody slips up, Ariel, could you imagine? It’d be the biggest heist in UFC history.”
The Irishman added, “Ian Machado Garry goes back to back to back. Goes out and proves to the world that he’s not afraid of anybody, anywhere, at any time. Goes out there and wins the belt on 14 days’ notice after just going five rounds with one of the scariest guys in the division. And he pulls off the victory. And he gets that belt wrapped around his waist. That’s some cinematic s*** right there.”
Garry acknowledged that his body was sore after the Prates fight, especially after five rounds. But he said he’s dealt with injuries in past fights and believes he can push through it mentally.