Ian Machado Garry set for UFC return in 2026

The Irish contender is reportedly booked for a fight, with Jack Della Maddalena among the potential opponents.

UFC welterweight contender Ian Machado Garry is reportedly set to return to the Octagon later this year.

He most recently faced Islam Makhachev at UFC 330, where he lost by unanimous decision after five rounds. Afterward, he faced a lot of criticism for apparently showing too much respect during the fight and failing to truly capitalize on his opportunities. Now, just a few months later, he could be set for his next bout to put his latest loss behind him. According to Ariel Helwani, he has reportedly already signed a fight contract, though his opponent, the venue, and the time have not yet been announced. However, there are only a few potential opponents here. The most interesting is probably Michael Morales, who has frequently challenged Ian Machado Garry on social media in recent months. However, a bout against Jack Della Maddalena, who most recently lost to Carlos Prates in May, is also a possibility.

Despite his latest loss, Ian Machado Garry is still ranked quite high, which is why a match against one of the top 5 makes the most sense. Who do you think it will be?

I can imagine it’ll be former champion Jack Della Maddalena. I think that’s the matchup that makes the most sense here, especially when you look at the overall situation in the division right now. What do you think?