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via Imago

via Imago

The phrase “running your mouth” is frequently heard in the world of MMA. In fact, most fighters would find it unusual if they refrained from engaging in verbal exchanges with their opponents. Prior to any fight, it has become almost customary for opponents to take verbal jabs at one another. Nevertheless, there are occasions when specific incidents arise, prompting the question: Where does one draw the line?

 Ian Garry, a promising welterweight prospect represented by VaynerSports, has become embroiled in a verbal dispute that has reverberated through the MMA community. Initially set to fight Geoff Neal, the fight anticipation shifted when Ian received a call from his manager, delivering the unexpected news of Neal’s withdrawal from the bout. In a shocking twist, Ian’s representative allegedly aimed unprofessional language and derogatory comments at Neal, using inappropriate words to announce Neal’s withdrawal from the fight.

Sean O’Malley speaks out on the controversy

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The situation has since gained traction, with even fellow UFC fighter Sean O’Malley weighing in on the matter. The bantamweight fighter, on his Twitter handle, has shed light on the intricacies of fighter representation and the dynamics that underscore the world of professional combat sports.

Read more: “I Am Not Making Nowhere Near That”: Sean O’Malley Admits Feeling “Jealous” Towards Ryan Garcia’s $30,000,000 Payday for His Fight Against Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, Despite Being One of the Top Earners in the UFC

Sean has questioned the representation dynamics, suggesting that the language used in Neal’s situation was far from the professional norm. According to the bantamweight fighter, Ian’s representative, possibly Lloyd Pierson, might have been behind the controversial words.

Sean tweeted,

“Ian is represented by @vaynersports, right? Doesn’t sound like @garyvee saying Geoff pulled out “because his pussy hurts”. Must have been Lloyd Pierson I’m guessing? Weird for a manager to say that about @handzofsteelmma . Hope it’s nothing serious, MMA is a brutal sport.”

 

Ian Garry’s new opponent

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As soon as the news of Neal’s withdrawal surfaced on the internet, fans began speculating about possible matchups that would make sense for Ian. Even Kevin Holland pitched himself to fight Ian, suggesting a catchweight bout. Amidst the chaos, the UFC announced that the Irish welterweight prospect is set to take on Neil Magny at UFC 292 in Boston on August 19th.

Ian Garry (12-0), who is touted as the next Conor McGregor, is coming off a first-round TKO over Daniel Rodriguez. The Irishman hails a 5-0 record in the UFC, finishing three of his five UFC opponents.

Meanwhile, Neil Magny (28-10) is a ten-year UFC veteran. Magny has consistently proven himself as a formidable welterweight contender over his entire UFC Career. The 36-year-old UFC veteran has won 2 out of his last 3 fights, which includes a split decision victory over Philip Rowe at UFC Jacksonville in June.

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Who will win this recently scheduled bout? Will the seasoned veteran or the promising prospect emerge victorious in the octagon? Share your thoughts!”

Watch this story: Dana White provides huge update on Conor McGregor’s return.