Ian Machado Garry preparing for biggest night of his career at UFC 330

Michael Bolton

Islam Makhachev has not lost in over a decade and has the joint-longest win streak in the history of the UFC, with Ian Machado Garry standing in his way of history.

The Dublin fighter gets his first shot at the welterweight title at UFC 330 in Philadelphia, as he attempts to become the first UFC fighter from Ireland to win a title since 2016.

The cousin os Khabib Nurmagomedov, this chapter of Dagestan against Ireland is a far calmer rivalry, with Ian Machado Garry's approach one often not seen in the sport.

A victim of his own success, Machado Garry has taken every fight on offer, including some difficult fighters on short notice, to put him in contention for the title.

Since he was signed up to the UFC in 2021, the Dublin fighter is 10-1 in the promotion, and said from the very beginning he would earn his chance to win a world title.

His long stance and clever movement, along with his quick striking and clever timing, make him an awkward fighter for any opponent.

Across from him in the octagon in the early hours of Sunday is Makhachev, who has become one of the greatest fighters the world has ever seen.

His wrestling and grappling overwhelm fighters, as he makes the first defence of his second title.

A slight lapse of concentration or mistake from Machado Garry, and Makhachev will take full advantage with a submission.

Makhachev will get Machado Garry down. The question is, can he get back up, and can he survive on his back?

His boxing and striking have also vastly improved in the past couple of years, so he will more than hold his own on the feet.

However, the Dublin man will present a new challenge for Makhachev, with his long reach and takedown defense making it an interesting stylistic match-up.

In what could be a big night for Irish sport, Machado Garry can become just the second champion from Ireland in the UFC.