Joe Rogan sees Ian Machado Garry as UFC 330 upset threat

The UFC analyst believes Garry has the tools to challenge Islam Makhachev’s dominance.

The highly experienced UFC analyst Joe Rogan thinks that we could be in for a big surprise in the fight between Ian Machado Garry and Islam Makhachev.

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev will return to the Octagon next month at UFC 330 to face rising challenger Ian Machado Garry.

After Islam Makhachev won the title last year, he’s determined to do everything he can to continue his winning streak and defend his title. Most people see him as the heavy favorite going into this fight, but Joe Rogan believes Ian Machado Garry has a real chance of defeating Islam Makhachev.

“I like the fight. I think Ian has a real chance.  But if he gets taken down, he might just get smooshed and choked."

Joe Rogan said.

Ian Machado Garry is returning after his recent victory over the former UFC welterweight champion, a win that most likely gave him a huge confidence boost. That’s also essential for him after suffering his first loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov in 2024. Since then, however, he has continued to develop significantly and is now considered a strong contender. His style is also relatively unique. Given his height, he’s hard to read and control. This is exactly the point Joe Rogan addressed.

“Garry’s no joke, man, he's very dangerous. That style and being that tall, it’s hard to deal with and even spar with tall guys. It creates a lot of space.”

he said.

So a lot is possible in this fight. Will we see another upset victory this year, or will the favorite come out on top this time?

Personally, I wouldn’t underestimate Ian Machado Garry under any circumstances. He’s proven what he’s capable of lately, and I think he’ll do it again. I’m really curious to see what both fighters will say in their upcoming interviews, because that’s when the situation always becomes a little clearer. What’s your take on the fight? Favorite or underdog?