Conor McGregor backs Ian Garry ahead of UFC 330 title fight

Conor McGregor has issued a message of support to Ian Machado Garry ahead of his welterweight title challenge against Islam Makhachev at UFC 330. Writing on X, McGregor encouraged Garry to ignore his critics and focus on his skills. He told the fighter to do it for his crew and to remember those who spoke against him.

The 38-year-old McGregor also provided a specific prediction for the championship bout. He believes Garry will secure a knockout victory by landing a right high kick to the top of Makhachev's head during the later rounds of the fight. McGregor noted that Garry possesses the necessary tools and reach to remain safe during the contest.

This support comes after Garry faced significant hostility from the MMA community and fans. During the UFC 330 post-fight press conference, the 28-year-old was met with heavy booing. Tensions rose when Garry attempted to praise Makhachev, leading the champion to tell him to shut up.

Makhachev defended his reaction by stating he does not like being interrupted while speaking. He explained that he asked Garry to be quiet because the Irishman was talking while he was trying to finish his own points.

The exchange drew criticism from Khabib Nurmagomedov, a longtime friend and training partner of Makhachev. Nurmagomedov expressed disappointment in the champion's conduct, suggesting that Makhachev should have been more polite. He noted that Garry was speaking nicely about the champion before being told to shut up.