Marco Tulio is feeling well-prepared for his upcoming middleweight fight against Tresean Gore at UFC 314 in Miami this Saturday. A significant part of his readiness comes from training alongside Ian Machado Garry, a highly regarded welterweight fighter from Ireland.
Tulio highlights the high caliber of his training camp, stating, “Ian coming here to train with us and hold his training camps here really demonstrates our quality.” He adds, “For someone of Ian`s level, one of the best in the world, to train with us and speak highly of our team shows how strong we are, even though our heavier fighters at Chute Boxe Diego Lima don`t always get the same recognition as the lighter weight classes.”
Ian Machado Garry, who was on an impressive winning streak in the UFC before a recent close defeat to Shavkat Rakhmonov, is again taking a fight on short notice. He is scheduled to headline UFC Kansas City on April 26 against Carlos Prates in a welterweight bout that also represents a team rivalry between Chute Boxe and Fighting Nerds.
Tulio praised Garry`s connection with Brazil, noting, “Ian Garry embraced Brazil before Brazil fully embraced him.” He further commented on Garry`s character, “His wife is Brazilian, and his coaches are top-notch. He brings incredible energy. Every time he trains with us, the atmosphere is fantastic. I learn so much from him. He`s one of the toughest training partners I’ve ever had. Fights between Brazilians are never ideal, but it’s part of the sport.”
Tulio`s fight is scheduled two weeks before Garry`s match with Prates, and Tulio is confident about securing his second UFC victory. He earned his UFC contract through Dana White`s Contender Series, defeating Yousri Belgaroui and Matthieu Duclos, and achieved a victory over Ihor Potieria in his UFC debut in January.
Regarding his previous fight, Tulio said, “I was aware of Potieria’s strengths but prepared effectively to counter them, and it worked.” Looking ahead to his next opponent, he added, “We`ve also done our homework for this fight. My fighting style is somewhat unique, and I believe it will trouble Gore. I watched his fight with Antonio Trocoli and have developed a strong strategy. I never underestimate any opponent, but I have confidence in my abilities. I`m certain our preparation will lead to a victory on the 12th.”
The 30-year-old middleweight is currently on a nine-fight winning streak, with six wins by knockout. He believes his placement on a pay-per-view card indicates the UFC`s recognition of his potential star power.
With this in mind, Tulio is aiming to make a strong impression on both UFC officials and fans in Miami.
“I always focus on winning,” Tulio stated. “If a knockout comes, I’ll be very happy. A bonus would be even better. It’s going to be a great night. I’m working on some special techniques to try and get that bonus. I’m a versatile fighter. Some people underestimate my grappling and jiu-jitsu, thinking striking is all I know. But I’ve been refining some interesting aspects of my game to show everyone on the 12th.”
