Ryan Garcia has vacillated a bit too much.
Once the 25-year-old was stopped at the hands of Gervonta Davis last year, he knew he needed a makeover. So, to build a bit of confidence, he took a step back and took on Oscar Duarte. It wasn’t a walk in the park but he eventually got it done, stopping Duarte in the eighth round.
Now, with the winner’s circle embracing him, Garcia wants one of the big names. Initially, he was hoping to get his hands on Devin Haney. Those plans changed, however, with Garcia opting to go after Rolando “Rolly” Romero. While those talks began to break down, Garcia called out Isaac Cruz. In the end, it was all for nothing.
Currently, Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs) is without a dance partner. Still, while both he and his team are disappointed, it doesn’t mean they don’t have options. According to Oscar De La Hoya, his longtime promoter, they already know when Garcia will jump back in the ring. As for an opponent, that’s being worked on.
“We have April 20th, that’s our date,” De La Hoya told Fight Hub TV during a recent interview. “I’m gonna announce something really, really big when it gets signed.”
At 140 pounds, De La Hoya has a few options. He could decide to throw Garcia in with newly signed super lightweight contender, Arnold Barboza. Jose Ramirez is another option. They could also revisit a matchup with Haney.
If none of those alternatives are appealing, De La Hoya might get creative. Garcia’s feet aren’t fully wet at 140 pounds with only a handful of fights. Nevertheless, the Hall of Fame former six-division champ seems ready to have his man bulk up in the weight room and take his talents elsewhere.
“You never know, maybe he moves up to 147, who knows.”