#4. Can Ian Garry follow Conor McGregor's footsteps at UFC 273?
Segueing off of fighters that have gone the unconventional cornering route is Ireland's Ian Garry. 'The Future' is an undefeated 24-year-old who entered the UFC after winning the Cage Warriors welterweight championship. This feat was performed after his former team opted not to be there for him, just about rendering Garry without anybody in his corner.
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'The Future' took his debut by the reins and scored a beautiful first-round knockout over fellow prospect Jordan Williams. Afterward, Garry was interviewed by Joe Rogan and showed no nerves about being on the big stage or be speaking to Rogan with a hot mic in his hands. Although he did admit to feeling nervous for the first time in his life while fighting, nobody would've guessed it.
The Irish fans are amongst the most loyal in MMA history. They helped carry McGregor to stardom, but is Garry destined for the same spotlight? 8-0, 6 finishes, 24-years of age -- Ian Garry doesn't want to be the next Conor McGregor, but he can follow in the footsteps of 'The Notorious' and etch his name in history.
Ian Garry will headline the UFC 273 prelims in a welterweight contest against Darian Weeks.
#3. 'The Korean Zombie' gets a title shot after nearly nine years at UFC 273
It may not be the fight that fans were expecting, but it's a very, very interesting one that is slated for April 9. Initially set to take on Max Holloway in a rare trilogy match where one man has won the first two bouts, Alexander Volkanovski wanted to put the nail in the coffin and defeat 'Blessed' one final time. Holloway was forced to pull out, unfortunately, and the featherweight division had many contenders raising their hands to step up to bat.
Giga Chikadza, Henry Cejudo, Calvin Kattar -- fighters were ready to state their case immediately. Former title challenger, Chan Sung Jung, was granted the opportunity as he's won three of his last five. While some will argue that Jung doesn't deserve this title fight, there's some merit to his name. Otherwise, the UFC wouldn't have booked him to headline such a star-studded event.
Zombie has a very unique style and is dangerous anywhere the fight could potentially take place. Coming off of a decision victory over Dan Ige, fans should note that this is the only decision victory in Jung's impressive UFC career. Every other organizational victory of his has been won via finish. Although Volkanovski is no stranger to a dangerous fight, Jung's weapons sure make this match an exciting one.
The UFC 273 main event is almost a full circle for 'The Korean Zombie', who last fought for the featherweight strap against Jose Aldo at UFC 163 in 2013. Given his constant dedication and impressive resurgence, this opportunity is long due for the 145lb division mainstay.