Alright, I’ll say it straight — I want Ian Garry Machado to lose. Not because I think he’s a bad fighter (he’s actually pretty sharp in the octagon), but because there’s something about the entire energy around him that just doesn’t sit right with me. And yes, a lot of that has to do with his wife.
Now before anyone starts screaming “hater” — hear me out.
The Discomfort Isn’t Just About the Fight Game
Ian’s rise in the UFC has been impressive, no doubt. He talks a lot, fights hard, and clearly wants to be the next Conor McGregor. But behind all the bravado is something else… something a bit awkward.
"His wife, Layla Anna-Lee, seems to be a central figure in his career — a little too central."
From corner advice to media presence, to writing a self-help book that includes weird bits about controlling the energy around her man — it’s all just a bit much.
It feels less like a fighter and his partner, and more like a lifestyle brand that happens to throw punches.
The “Cuck” Narrative: Harsh, But Rooted in Fan Reactions
Let’s not pretend the internet hasn’t noticed. Ian’s relationship with his wife has been picked apart, especially after rumours and clips circulated showing her being overinvolved or too controlling. The word “cuck” has been thrown around (harsh, but this is fight fandom — nothing’s sugar-coated).
And when you add in how he seems to defend it all proudly — it just rubs people the wrong way. Confidence is great, but blind devotion to something uncomfortable? That’s where many fans draw the line.
It’s Not About Hate — It’s About the Vibe
Fighters can live how they want. But when you're in the fight game, your image matters. People either want to see you win or desperately want to see you lose — and unfortunately for Ian, many have leaned toward the latter.
"It’s not that he can’t fight — it’s that people feel like he’s being handled."
And that’s not the energy you want from a top-tier striker.
Can He Win Us Back? Maybe. But First, He Needs a Wake-Up Call
Honestly, I think a tough loss could do Ian some good. Shake the ego a bit. Bring him back down to earth. Maybe get him to focus on being a fighter first, and a brand later.
Until then, I’ll be watching his next match closely — not out of respect, but because I genuinely want to see him get humbled.
Final Thoughts
Look, this ain’t personal (well… maybe a little). But in a sport built on heart, grit, and raw emotion, Ian’s whole setup feels too manufactured, too polished — too weird.
So yeah. I’m hoping he loses.
And when he does, I’ll be the one nodding like, “Told you so.”