Kevin Jousset explains post-UFC 293 callout of ‘annoying’ Ian Machado Garry

SYDNEY – Kevin Jousset simply wants to test himself against a fellow highly touted striker in Ian Machado Garry.

Jousset (9-2 MMA, 1-0 UFC) called out Garry after submitting Kiefer Crosbie in the first round in this past Saturday’s UFC 293 opening bout at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney. Although Garry (13-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) is currently a ranked welterweight climbing into top contention, City Kickboxing’s Jousset would love that fight.

“I think he’s a good fighter,” Jousset told MMA Junkie and other reporters during a post-fight news conference. “I think he wants to go all the way to the top and so do I. I’m sure he thinks he’s one of the best guys in the world and so do I.

“Surely we have the same goals of being world champion eventually, and being in the UFC for me means I’m here to fight the best guys in the world. I’m not here to fight bums or fight guys that nobody knows about. I’m here to fight the best guys in the world and make money. So, if I can do both at the same time, perfect.”

Garry is one of the most popular fighters on the UFC roster, who rubbed some people the wrong way for going after his past opponent, Neil Magny. Jousset isn’t a fan of his personality either.

“I agree, I think he’s annoying,” Jousset said.

Jousset clarified that he’s not discrediting Garry. He just thinks he’s better than him everywhere, and he’s willing to prove it.

“I think he’s very good, don’t get me wrong,” Jousset said. “I’m not saying he’s a bad fighter or anything. I think he’s very good. I train with long, very good strikers every day, and he’s a long, very good striker.

“I’m also one of the best grapplers and not many people know about it just yet because I didn’t really get the chance to show none of my grappling, even if I did tonight for a little bit. But, I can outstrike him, and I can outgrapple him.”