It’s been a while since
Ryan Garcia has been under the bright lights.
Although he reluctantly accepted his suspension for failing a postfight drug test following his win over Devin Haney,
Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs) still maintains his innocence. Nevertheless, that part of Garica’s career is water under the bridge.
Now, it’s all about Rolando “Rolly” Romero.
The two will officially get it on Friday in New York City, and Garcia is feeling as confident as ever. So is Oscar De La Hoya, his longtime promoter.
In most situations, a fighter and his promoter will keep their eyes on the prize before planning their next move. In this case, however, both know what lies ahead.
“If Ryan wins and Devin wins, then we’ll see part two,” said De La Hoya to FightHype.com.
The rematch between Garcia and Haney might be his most lucrative option, but it isn’t his only one. The 26-year-old, through social media and other avenues, has built an otherworldly fanbase. According to De La Hoya, he has a lot of options.
While his behavior has been erratic and unpredictable, Garcia will likely find a home in the welterweight division. But Garcia is putting on muscle and growing seemingly every day.
De La Hoya won't pigeonhole him to just one weight class. If Garcia wants to remain at 147 pounds, Haney and Jaron Ennis become possible future opponents. But Garcia also could head on up to 154 pounds, and De La Hoya has the perfect fighter he could take on next.
“Ryan Garcia is in position to fight anyone at 147, 154,” continued De La Hoya. “He can even fight Vergil Ortiz if he wants.”