Ian Machado Garry will challenge Islam Makhachev for the 170-pound title in the main event of UFC 330. And he is promised to bounce his opponent’s head off the canvas.
Less than two months before that opportunity arrives, the brash Irishman has announced a new partnership with a familiar figure in combat sports.
Garry Joins Matchroom Talent Agency
Garry revealed on his social media that he has signed with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Talent Agency, expanding the team around him as he approaches his first UFC championship bout.
“Congratulations Matchroom Talent Agency, you’ve signed the future,”
“I’m excited to announce Team Future just got bigger. Alongside Vayner Sports, I’ll be joining The Matchroom Talent Agency — who will now work across my commercial interests.”
The move places Garry alongside UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, who also works with Hearn.
What the Deal Means for Garry
Unlike Aspinall’s arrangement, Garry’s new agreement is limited to sponsorships, branding opportunities, and other commercial ventures.
At the moment, Garry’s agreement does not involve matchmaking, fight contracts, or negotiations with the UFC. His existing representatives at Vayner Sports will continue overseeing UFC business matters, including contract negotiations and fight-related dealings with the promotion.
That distinction is notable given the ongoing public back-and-forth between Hearn and UFC CEO Dana White. The two promoters have traded criticism in recent months, particularly over fighter pay and the state of the boxing business.
The two have had many disputes, with White referring to Hearn as a “clout chaser”.
Hearn recently stirred discussion when he said he “nearly fell off the f—king chair” after learning how little Aspinall was earning.
In another instance of their boxing feud, Hearn even offered to trade boxer Conor Ben for the UFC heavyweight champ.
So for Gary, any connection to Hearn is likely to draw attention because of his tense relationship with White.
Let’s hope that for now at least, the undefeated Irish contender can remain focused on the task ahead. UFC 330 will give him his first chance to capture a world title, and it comes against Makhachev, widely regarded as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the sport.
And we would not want any messy contract negotiations between White and Hearn messing with his first title shot at welterweight.