Harshad Patel
UFC 303 is shaping up to be an event with strong Irish representation.
UFC CEO Dana White revealed on Friday that the undefeated Irish prospect Ian Machado Garry will face off against the seasoned Bellator contender Michael Page in a significant welterweight clash scheduled for the June 29 event in Las Vegas.
Notably, Conor McGregor, another Irish fighter, will headline the event in his highly anticipated return against Michael Chandler.
Ian Machado Garry (14-0) holds the No. 8 spot in MMA Fighting’s welterweight rankings. The 26-year-old fighter boasts an impeccable record in the UFC, having secured victories in all seven of his appearances. Notable wins include triumphs over Geoff Neal, Neil Magny, and Daniel Rodriguez.
Following his latest victory over Neal, Garry had been eyeing a showdown with three-time title challenger Colby Covington. However, he will now face Michael Page instead.
Michael Page (22-2) is ranked No. 14 in MMA Fighting’s welterweight rankings. Having previously contended for the Bellator interim title, Page has set numerous records during his decade-long tenure with the organization.
These include the most stoppage victories (10) and the most knockouts in Bellator welterweight history (9). Additionally, he shares the record for most knockouts in Bellator history (11) and holds the fourth position on the all-time Bellator wins list (17).
Despite being 37 years old, Page made a successful UFC debut in March, securing a dominant decision win over Kevin Holland.
UFC 303 is scheduled to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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