Ian Machado Garry escalated a war of words with opponent Neil Magny at the UFC 292 pre-fight press conference, stemming from Magny’s earlier comments on intending to “whoop” Garry in the octagon, leading to a heated exchange between the two fighters.
Heading into UFC 292, Irish welterweight Ian Machado Garry pledged to be the main attraction. However, during the pre-fight press conference, he found himself embroiled in an intense verbal skirmish with opponent Neil Magny. The issue stemmed from comments made by Magny during Wednesday’s media day. Magny, who is set to face off against the undefeated Garry in the octagon, confidently speculated on the outcome of the match.
Magny likened his impending challenge against Garry to various degree of ‘ass whoopings’. He compared it to discipline dispensed in grade school or to one’s son, emphasizing how fatherhood has familiarized him with such forms of reprimanding. Despite Garry’s bravado, Magny expressed his resolve to ‘settle him down’ in the ring. He elaborated on his eagerness to discipline Garry the way a father would to an unruly child, taming his arrogance, and teaching him a lesson.
Garry, upset by Magny’s comment, admonished him at the press conference. He demanded that none of the attending journalists interrogate Magny while they shared the podium, and asked that Magny reflect on his statements in silence. Garry was particularly incensed because he believed that Magny had trivialized the serious matter of child disciplining and abuse with his comments. Garry fervently stated that disciplining children in a potentially violent manner was wrong, and asked for Magny to think on his words.
Despite Garry’s request, a question was directed at Magny which escalated the disagreement. Garry obstinately tried to prevent Magny from expressing himself, causing quite a commotion. This prompted Magny to sternly caution Garry against bringing up his family again, warning him not to play the victim. Towards the end of the exchange, Garry tried to belittle Magny’s professional record only for Magny to fire back instantly. The heated exchange came to an end when UFC President Dana White stepped in, separating them ahead of the main card event set for UFC 292.