Preview: UFC 285 Prelims

Welterweights

Ian Garry (10-0, 3-0 UFC) vs. Kenan Song (18-6, 4-2 UFC)

ODDS: Garry (-620), Song (+400)

Three fights in, it has been a case of so far so good for Garry’s UFC campaign. Garry was days shy of his 24th birthday upon making his UFC debut late in 2021, but the Irishman had already essentially proven everything he needed to prove at the regional level, combining size and athleticism with finishing ability in every phase of his fights. His UFC career thus far has exposed some issues in Garry’s game, but he impressively seems to be proactive in terms of patching up those holes. Jordan Williams clipped Garry a few times through sheer aggression and Darian Weeks neutralized him at times in a grind, but he responded with his most complete performance yet over three rounds in a win over Gabriel Green in July. The UFC obviously believes Garry can live up to his nickname of “The Future,” as it is clearly slow-playing his climb and giving him time to develop.

Song provides for an interesting matchup that Garry also clearly should win. Song has become a bit of a forgotten man after a two-year layoff, but he has had a solid amount of success over six UFC fights, mostly on the back of his power. A physical specimen, Song has been able to slug his way to knockouts while also overpowering his way out of wrestling exchanges. Based on his fights that have extended into deeper waters, he is clearly a fighter who has to balance his power with his cardio. Song is capable of some bursts of offense but cannot maintain that pace over three rounds. If Garry exhibits the type of defensive overconfidence he has shown in the past, there is a clear risk of a knockout. However, his last few performances suggest he has moved past those issues and should be able to patiently work his way to a win. The pick is Garry via third-round stoppage.

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