Ian Garry has scraped by Geoff Neal in a split decision at UFC 298.
The fight was considered to be a grudge match by many, considering Garry's antics in the past. However, it played out more like a sparring match with neither man making a statement in the full 15 minutes.
As the crowd jeered in the post-fight interview, the Irishman gloated about his victory. "Keep talking, you're all here watching me!" Garry told the crowd. ".... I'm gonna be a world champion whether you guys want it or not."
"The Future" called out Colby Covington, possibly as the co-main event to the rumored matchup between Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor later this year.
Round-by-round
Round 1
Round one began tentatively with both fighters respecting their abilities. Garry worked from the range with his kicks, as expected, and Neal darted around the outside looking for his shot. "Handz of Steel" found success by adding up his combinations and backing the Irishman back to the fence. The two briefly engaged in the clinch before returning to the center of the octagon. As the round came to an end, Garry appeared to find his rhythm with the kicks --- it was just getting fired up.
Round 2
Neal plays a dangerous game, cutting off the octagon and storming into range, presumably to confuse Garry into a big shot. "The Future" times a Neal entry with a strong knee to the chest, and later to the face. Neal needs to find Garry's respect, or else he may lose a slow decision. Neal tries to level change and lands a good uppercut from the clinch.
Garry bleeds from the mouth but sticks to his disciplined game plan nonetheless. The crowd isn't enjoying the fight, but it only takes one shot with these men. Neal appeared to land the better strikes in round two, but it's up for debate.
It certainly isn't the grudge match it was hyped up to be.
Round 3
Neal swings and misses, and they tie up against the fence. Left hook off the break misses for Neal. Garry lands a nice kick to the body, and Neal responds with a digging body shot. Neal keeps advancing and keeps finding himself in the clinch. Jeers from the crowd.
A good left hand by Neal stumbles Garry, but no follow-up. Garry lands an audible knee up the middle. Both fighters need to work if they want a convincing victory. One minute to decide it. No urgency from either man to steal the round - it's over.
(30-27 Garry x2, 29-28 Neal)
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