An MMA fighter touted as a new Conor McGregor scored an emphatic finish on his UFC debut
- Ian Garry continues to take the MMA world by storm.
- The 23-year-old Irishman's rise is drawing comparisons to Conor McGregor.
A 23-year-old MMA fighter touted as a new Conor McGregor scored an emphatic finish on his UFC debut Saturday during the UFC 268 show at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Meet Ian Garry - a new combat sports star who has been taken the European circuit by storm - introduced himself to the American market with a first-round pummeling of Jordan Williams this weekend.
A former Cage Warriors champion just like McGregor was before he signed with the UFC in 2013, Garry entered the Octagon with an undefeated MMA record - unlike his compatriot who lost twice before moving to the big leagues.
Garry only made his pro-MMA debut in 2019, but built a record of five finishes from seven wins before getting the call from the UFC to fight on November 6.
On the early preliminary section of the UFC 268 event, Garry showed that he is a hyped talent for good reason as he finished Williams in style.
Moments before the end of the first round, Williams lunged at Garry with a strike. The Irishman countered with a heavy right hand that wobbled Williams.
Two further shots that took advantage of a befuddled opponent put Williams on the floor for good, who seemed to lose control of his body as his legs flailed around from beneath him.
Watch the awesome shots right here:
The welterweight then channeled McGregor in his post-fight victory speech.
"We just shocked the world," Garry said. "The Irish are back, baby! I've a lot to learn. I'm 23 years of age. We're taking over the division.
"A wise Irishman once said before me, he stepped in this very cage and he said, we're not here to take part, we're here to take over," he added, referencing McGregor. "This is the takeover, part two."
McGregor reacted on Twitter and appeared pleased with what he saw.
The victory advanced Garry's pro-MMA record to eight wins (five knockouts, one submission, and two decisions).