Dana White Sends Clear Message on New UFC 315 Stipulation
In the main event of UFC 315, Belal Muhammad will defend his welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena. In the event something should prevent either man from competing that night, UFC President Dana White confirmed the alternate while speaking to the media following UFC Kansas City.
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White didn't mince words when he confirmed that Ian Machado Garry would be the backup fighter for the UFC 315 main event. After surviving a rough finish against Carlos Prates in the Kansas City headliner, Garry positioned himself perfectly to be on standby for a potential title shot. Garry called this out in the Octagon and repeated it in this video shared by Full Send MMA. He knew he would be the choice as an alternate.
UFC fans, still buzzing from a card that featured brutal knockouts and standout performances, have even more reason to stay invested. The confirmation of Garry as the backup fighter adds an interesting wrinkle to the UFC 315 narrative. Whether or not he ultimately fights that night, knowing a young, undefeated contender like Garry could step in changes the stakes.
The decision directly affects Garry, Muhammad, and Della Maddalena. Garry now must remain disciplined and ready, treating the next few weeks like he's in a full camp without actually knowing if he'll fight. Muhammad and Della Maddalena also know that if something goes wrong in training or during weight cuts, a highly motivated replacement is just a call away. Garry was in firm control over Prates through the first three rounds. However, the Brazilian came on strong in the fourth and especially the fifth round when he nearly had Garry out.
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Heading into UFC Kansas City, there was already speculation that Garry might angle for a title shot. His victory, even though it wasn't flawless, kept his momentum intact and made the alternate spot a natural fit. White's announcement simply confirmed what many already suspected based on Garry's post-fight comments and demeanor.
Looking ahead, Garry will heal up, recover, and make sure he doesn't allow himself to get out of shape. He'll weigh in on Friday, May 9, just in case he's called upon to step in for Muhammad or Della Maddalena. Whether he fights that night or not, Garry's proximity to a championship opportunity feels closer than ever before. If things break right, he could go from alternate to champion in a matter of hours.
Related: Dana White Sounds Off on Struggling Veteran After Loss, 'He Looked Like He Was Stuck in the Mud'
Related: UFC Fans Slam Veteran Referee For 'Hearing Voices' After 2 Bumbling Mishaps
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