Fighters generally do a good job of focusing on what’s in front of them, but in some instances they’re secretly working on their next move.
Ryan Garcia’s future might be the worst-kept secret in boxing. Later this year, the 26-year-old will be standing across the ring from Devin Haney. The two initially got it on April 2024 with Garcia coming out on top. After a failed post-fight drug test, however, his win was scrubbed.
A sequel would generate loads of buzz and attention, and Romero agrees. He knows he’s being overlooked, but playing spoiler isn’t on his mind. If Haney and Garcia want to run things back, Romero (16-2, 13 KOs) doesn’t have an issue with it.
First things first. Romero wants his pound of flesh.
“I’m a knock Ryan out then he can go have fun with Devin right after,” said Romero on Wednesday during their final press conference.
Romero, 29, could use a jolt. On the two biggest nights of his professional life, he was violently KO’d. First at the hands of Gervonta Davis. Second, Isaac Cruz was the culprit. A recent win over Manuel Jaimes, who has seen better days himself, boosted his confidence.
By and large, Romero doesn’t have many friends in the sport. He’s a young boxer with an old soul. He wants to fight everyone. Still, for some reason, Romero has a soft spot for Haney.
“I think Devin deserves his rematch with Ryan," he said.