Ian Garry is gearing up for a massive showdown against Shavkat Rakhmonov. What’s turning heads isn’t just the fight itself but the star-studded corner team he’s assembled. Charles Oliveira, the beloved Brazilian fighter known for his explosive performances and fan-favorite persona, will be right there supporting Garry.
During a recent ESPN MMA interview, Garry explained exactly why he wanted Oliveira in his corner. His answer was refreshingly simple: energy. Not just any energy, but what he describes as an “alpha” quality that’s impossible to ignore.
“Energy. The biggest thing that I’ve ever encountered with Charles is he just got a phenomenal energy… He’s just got this element of alpha to him. He walks around, he’s got his little strut, but he’s laser-focused. I love the dude… It’s going to be great having him in my corner.”
There’s an interesting backstory here. Ian Garry isn’t just randomly picking Oliveira – he’s actually fluent in Portuguese and has spent significant time in Brazil. This cultural connection likely plays a role in their budding partnership. Their mutual respect is evident in how they talk about each other.
The upcoming fight is a dream matchup for fight fans. Both Ian Garry and Shavkat Rakhmonov remain undefeated. The Irishman sports a 15-0 record and eight impressive finishes. The Kazakh comes in with an even more stunning 18-0 record and a perfect finishing rate. Something’s got to give.
Ian Garry Shares How Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Coach Predicted His Path to a Future Championship
Garry and Rakhmonov’s story began in Kill Cliff FC training rooms in Florida, where their paths first crossed. Henri Hooft, Rakhmonov’s renowned coach, saw something special brewing. During a candid conversation, Rakhmonov made a bold prediction that would later become the talk of the UFC.
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Garry recently revealed Hooft’s remarkable recollection. Rakhmonov didn’t just see potential in himself – he saw a championship future for both fighters. It’s the kind of confident prophecy that makes fight fans lean in closer.
“Henri Hooft told me that Shavkat Rakhmonov and he had a conversation in which he said, ‘Shavkat knows that you’re going to be the champion one day, but he says me first and him later,’” said Garry via UFC.
👀Ian Garry claims Shavkat Rakhmonov's coach, Henri Hooft, once told him that Shavkat believed Ian would be a future champion:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 1, 2024
“He said Shavkat knows you’re going to be the champion one day but he says me first and him later”
🎥@ufc 🔹 pic.twitter.com/pOv3WOq1Lz
What makes this matchup truly fascinating is the backstory. These aren’t just strangers meeting in the octagon. They have trained together and understood each other’s fighting styles. Now, they are set to write another chapter in their intertwined storylines.
Also Read: Ian Garry Vows To Take Shavkat Rakhmonov’s Undefeated Record And Claim UFC Belt Next
