UFC Charlotte video: Ian Machado Garry unloads huge head kick leading to first-round knockout over Daniel Rodriguez

Ian Machado Garry faced the toughest test of his career at UFC Charlotte and passed with flying colors.

The always outspoken Irish welterweight unloaded a massive head kick that blasted Daniel Rodriguez midway through the opening round that dropped the Los Angeles native to the ground. Machado Garry quickly followed him to the ground, where he just kept hammering away with punches until referee Dan Miragliotta had no choice but to stop the contest.

The end came at 2:57 in the opening round.

“No disrespect to D-Rod, but I knew I was better,” Machado Garry said. “I told you a big key in this fight was going to be that right leg. That high kick was beautiful. It was just timing. Shin to chin. That’s all you need in this game.”

As one of the tallest and longest fighters in the division, Machado Garry used that to his advantage while keeping Rodriguez on the end of his punches throughout the first round. Machado Garry snapped off punches and then targeted the body with kicks, which was the exact setup he wanted for the head shot that ultimately led to the finish.

With Rodriguez desperately trying to find a way inside, he left his left side open to the kicks and Machado Garry recognized that immediately. He launched the right high kick and landed flush, with Rodriguez stumbling backwards as soon as he absorbed the punishment.

Machado Garry was quick to seize on the opening with a barrage of shots on the ground, which led to his fifth straight win in the UFC and second straight knockout in a row. Afterward, Machado Garry already had a name in mind for his next opponent.

“I want the guy that’s been known as the gatekeeper to top 10 for God knows how long,” Machado Garry shouted. “His name is Neil Magny. I want you next. UFC, you have a new star in town.”

Unfortunately for Machado Garry, Magny already has a fight booked against Phil Rowe in June, but if Magny wins, it could set up a future showdown with the fast-rising Irish star who now boasts a perfect 12-0 record in his career.