India, Aug. 16 -- Ireland's Ian Machado Garry remained defiant and proud after falling short in his first UFC title challenge, insisting he will return stronger following a unanimous decision loss to welterweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 in the early hours of Sunday.

Addressing supporters shortly after the judges rendered scores of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47 in Makhachev's favour, the 28-year-old Dublin native was quick to give credit to the reigning pound-for-pound champion without making any excuses for the setback.

"Tonight wasn't my night. I feel great; I did great. Islam was just better than me tonight, and that's okay," Garry said. "I want everybody who loves me and supports me and wants to see me do better to know that I'...