UFC star Conor McGregor has praised fellow Irishman Ian Garry following the youngster’s victory at UFC 276.

Ireland’s success in mixed martial arts has been notable across the last decade and the man at the forefront of it all has been Conor McGregor. From winning two titles in the UFC to his incredible presence outside of the Octagon, this is a man who knows what it means to take the ball and run with it.

The 33-year-old has certainly proven to be a divisive figure at times and nobody is denying that, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s worth acknowledging that the sport wouldn’t be as big as it is today in Ireland without him.

One fighter, in particular, who took real inspiration from ‘Notorious’ is none other than Ian Garry.

The man known as ‘The Future’ moved to 3-0 in the Ultimate Fighting Championship last Saturday night with an impressive decision win over Gabe Green. While he still has a long way to go before being ready for some of welterweight’s biggest challenges, the 24-year-old seems to have all the tools required to become a real threat at 170 pounds.

McGregor, who has shouted him out in the past, had the following to say about Garry’s win and where he goes from here.

“Ian Garry was incredibly impressive this weekend. Fully immersed in it all. Enjoying every second. Willingness to engage / commit. The Potential for another “future” Irish mma ufc champion rose by a real nice margin this weekend. Congrats Ian, keep going brother!”

Return of the king

After a year away from the cage due to a broken leg, Conor McGregor continues to tease another comeback at some point before the end of the year.

We almost certainly aren’t going to see him for the rest of the summer but when he does return, it’s looking more and more likely that it’s going to be at welterweight.

There are several contenders just chomping at the bit to welcome him back and when he does make that walk again, you’d have to think the UFC will want to put Garry on the card right alongside him.