Ian Machado Garry, a rising star in the welterweight division, entered the UFC in 2021, boasting an impeccable record of seven wins and zero losses.
Renowned for his precision striking, fans were puzzled by his decision to incorporate his middle name ‘Machado’ into his octagon moniker.
So, are you also wondering why Ian Garry suddenly morphed into Ian Machado Garry inside the UFC ring? Well, it’s more than just a flashy addition to his name.
Ian Garry’s choice to include ‘Machado’ in his name mirrored his wife Layla Machado Garry’s, emphasizing family unity and a sense of connection. Ian said, “The truth is I only did it because I wanted my son (Leandro Vegas Machado Garry) and my stepson (Lucas Machado Garry) to really feel connected.”
What’s the Story Behind Ian Garry Changing His Name?
After a few UFC fights, Ian Garry introduced ‘Machado’ into his name. Consequently, UFC announcers began introducing him as Ian Machado Garry.
Ian Garry’s name-change journey intertwines with his wife, Layla Anna-Lee, a prominent figure in sports broadcasting.
The couple’s relationship blossomed around 2020, during Garry’s rise in the Cage Warriors promotion. Layla’s heritage, with Brazilian roots and a mixed English, Irish, and Scottish background, added layers to their union.
She adopted the stage name Layla Anna-Lee but officially goes by Layla Machado, reflecting her Brazilian lineage. The decision to embrace the surname ‘Machado’ symbolized more than just a name change. It was a gesture of unity and inclusivity within the family.
With a child on the way and Layla’s son, Lucas Machado Garry, from a previous relationship bearing the Machado name, the couple aimed to forge stronger familial bonds.
Adding ‘Machado’ to Ian Garry’s name ensured that all family members shared a common identity, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.
UFC analyst Megan Olivi surmised the situation (via First Sportz):
“His wife, Layla, is Brazilian, and Machado was her last name. She has a son who also has Machado in his name. And now that they’re expecting again, they wanted to make sure that the brothers had a name in common. So that they felt they were all one big family with co-parenting. So they all added it to their name so that none felt left out.”
Ian himself clarified the same in an interview with CBS Sports. He explained:
“The truth is I only did it because I wanted my son and my stepson to really feel connected. I didn’t want them going through life with two separate surnames. I feel like there is a little bit of a disconnect. If you guys want to be brothers, I want to make sure you guys have that same connection.”
Ian Garry’s choice to modify his name wasn’t about fame or fortune but about reinforcing family ties. It’s a heartwarming narrative that transcends the realm of sports, highlighting the importance of family bonds and shared identities.
With the birth of their baby boy, Leandro Vegas Machado Garry, on 21 October 2021, the Garrys celebrated their expanded family, embodying the spirit of unity and love.
Now, as we wrap up this tale of love, family, and octagon transformations, let’s ponder a few questions.
How important is it to preserve cultural heritage within a family? And finally, have you ever witnessed a similar heartwarming gesture in your own life or among those you admire?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: CBS Sports
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