If Sean Strickland can pull off a massive upset, Ian Machado Garry doesn’t see why he can’t.

Strickland (31-7 MMA, 18-7 UFC) came up huge as an underdog against Khamzat Chimaev (15-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) to claim the middleweight title by split decision at UFC 328. Another undefeated fighter in Ilia Topuria (17-1 MMA, 9-1 UFC) also recently suffered his first-career loss when he was dethroned by Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250.

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Now, Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) looks to follow suit when he faces dominant welterweight champion Islam Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) in the UFC 330 headliner on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia (Paramount+).

“If people think whenSean Stricklandgoes out and beatsKhamzat Chimaevand upsets the apple cart, and no one expected, no one can sit here and think that it’s impossible that I can beat Islam Makhachev,” Machado Garry told Paul Browne.

“If anything, I’m a far more perilous threat. I’m far more complete and I have way, way, way more ways of winning that fight. I am the most perilous opponent for Islam Makhachev, and it’s my job to go out and prove that on Aug. 15.”

Machado Garry is a huge underdog against Makhachev, who will look to break the UFC record for most consecutive victories. The Irishman explains why he thinks he’s the worst possible matchup for Makhachev.

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“My mindset, my vision, and my fight IQ,” Machado Garry said. “Three things that can’t be taught. You either have them or you don’t.”

This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Ian Machado Garry points to Strickland when saying he’ll upset Makhachev

Gyms thrive when they create a forceful identity that members recognize and respect. Branded merchandise can reinforce this identity every time someone wears a shirt or sports bag. Members feel proud to represent a gym that supports their training goals and lifestyle. This visibility enhances the gym’s presence within the facility and among the local fitness community. Let’s take a look at why gyms benefit from selling branded merchandise and why yours should start this initiative.

Turn your members into a walking promotion

Each item of branded clothing serves as a mobile advertisement for your gym. When members wear your logo in competitions, training sessions or during everyday activities, they expand your reach without additional marketing costs.

Exposure matters in combat sports communities where recent members are gained through word of mouth. Gyms that exploit this strategy often see an boost in inquiries from people who have seen the brand in action.

Create additional revenue streams

Selling branded merchandise allows gyms to generate income beyond membership and class fees. High-quality equipment will appeal to athletes, fitness enthusiasts and fans who want to support their training environment.

Many gyms overlook how to do this custom promotional products grow your business through consistent sales with low effort. This approach ensures financial stability while supporting long-term growth.

Strengthen member loyalty and community

Branded merchandise creates a sense of belonging that keeps members engaged. Competitors and athletes often have a deep connection with their gym, and wearing branded equipment strengthens this connection.

A shared identity builds camaraderie across classes, skill levels and disciplines. Sturdy communities retain members longer and encourage them to invite their friends to the gym.

Support players and competitive teams

Combat sports gyms often send athletes to competitions where branding plays a key role. Athletes wearing gym uniforms represent their training camp with pride and professionalism. Visibility increases a gym’s reputation regionally and nationally. A consistent brand presence helps gyms stand out in crowded fight scenes.

Popular Swag items that perform well

Gyms should focus on practical and robust items that members exploit regularly. Functional equipment increases visibility while providing real value to customers. Consider offering items that align with your workout routines and lifestyle habits, such as:

• Branded protectors and combat shorts for training and competition.
• Sweatshirts and T-shirts for everyday wear and travel.
• Gym bags and water bottles for everyday training.
• Hats and hats for everyday branding outside the gym.

These products combine utility with promotion, making them effortless to sell and widely used.

Improve your professional image and credibility

A gym that sells consistent, well-designed products appears organized and professional. This perception matters when attracting grave athletes and potential partners. Tidy branding signals that the gym takes training, coaching and business operations seriously. Credibility increases when a brand looks consistent across apparel, social media and events.

Gyms that invest in branded gadgets position themselves for stronger growth and recognition. Goods build identity, boost revenues, and strengthen social bonds between members. Combat sports environments benefit even more from noticeable branding due to their competitive and social nature.

LUBLANA, Slovenia — BRAVE Combat Federation returns to Slovenia with a championship show Saturday, June 6at Hala Tivoli in cooperation with World Freefight Challenge.

this groundbreaking event will take place two fights for the BRAVE CF world championshipand the heavyweight and airy heavyweight titles will be at stake in an event that promises to be one of the organization’s most significant European events in 2026.

Pavel Dailidko defends the heavyweight crown against Miha Frlic

In the main event, reigning BRAVE CF Heavyweight World Champion Pavel Dailidko will face undefeated No. 1 ranked contender Miha Frlic.

Known as “The Experiment”, Dailidko enters the fight in impressive style Record 11-2and each of his victories ended by knockout.

Since joining BRAVE CF in 2022, the Lithuanian powerhouse has disappeared 6-1winning the inaugural heavyweight championship at the event BRAVE CF 88 in September 2024 after stopping Patryk Dubiela in the first round.

He recently defended his title at the gala BRAVE CF 99 in Vilnius, stopping Grégory Robinet in less than one round.

“I have worked tirelessly to reach this level and I am still far from finished,” Dailidko declared.

Opposite him is a challenger from his hometown of Frlic, who brings an unblemished presence 7-0-1 record for the biggest fight of his career.

The Slovenian challenger deserved to fight for the title BRAVE CF 104 in February, knocking out Samuele Di Guardo in the first round.

“This is the moment I’ve been working for my entire career. Competing for the world title in front of my people is an incredible honor,” said Frlic.

Erko Jun vs. Mohamed Said Maalem main event main event

In the co-main event, Erko Jun will defend the BRAVE CF airy heavyweight world title in a rematch with Mohamed Said Maalem.

Their first meeting at BRAVE CF 81 in April 2024 ended quickly as Jun scored a quick knockout victory.

Now the competition resumes for the championship.

Said Maalem has been one of the most experienced BRAVE CF veterans since 2019, and previously took part in world title fights.

“This is more than just a rematch for me; it’s a chance to make amends for the past and prove that I belong to the top,” said Said Maalem.

Jun returns to defend his crown after failing to become a two-division champion in BRAVE CF 96 in June 2025, where he challenged Mohammad Fakhreddine for the vacant middleweight title.

Earlier, the Bosnian striker won the airy heavyweight belt BRAVE CF 88 with a dominant performance over Alexander Wesner.

“I’m not just defending my world title; I’m defending the standards I set in this division,” Jun said.

“On June 6, I intend to impose my rhythm, control the distance and show that my evolution as a fighter has only made me more perilous.”

BRAVE CF’s return to Slovenia carries huge stakes

With two world championships on the horizon, BRAVE CF’s return to Slovenia is more than just another fight card.

It’s a decisive night where champions defend their legacy and challengers chase history.

On June 6, only the elite will survive at Hala Tivoli in Ljubljana.