Oscar De La Hoya has revealed exactly who Ryan Garcia will be facing next as he prepares to make his return to the ring.
Garcia has been out of action since he was handed the second defeat of his professional career to Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero back in May, falling short in his attempt at capturing the WBA Regular welterweight title in the process.
‘King Ry’ was the subject of intense controversy in 2024 when it was revealed that he had failed a drugs test ahead of his clash with Devin Haney, which led to him being served with a one-year suspension from boxing and a fine of over $1 million.
It has been reported in the last few days that Garcia could be in line for a showdown with reigning WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios next, and whilst speaking to Fight Hype, promoter De La Hoya virtually confirmed that the fight will be happening.
“I actually have to commend Barrios and Ryan, and making that fight. Yeah it’ll be a special fight I mean imagine Ryan beating Barrios, something that Pacquiao couldn’t do or an older Pacquiao couldn’t do.
“It would be a big accomplishment for Ryan, finally becoming a world champion after all these years. Yeah it’s exciting, it’s exciting because it’s not an easy fight and then again Ryan can really show the world what he’s made of because it wouldn’t be easy.”
Asked if the fight was set, De La Hoya said it was the target but not signed.
“He is on. top of the list. It’s no secret. There’s no hidden agenda. I think Barrios will be the guy for Ryan. It’s just a matter of negotiating and making the fight.”
Barrios made the most recent defence of his WBC welterweight title back in July when he fought to a majority draw against Filipino great Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas.
There was speculation growing about a potential rematch between Barrios and Pacquiao, although it has now been revealed that ‘PacMan’ will be taking a different route ahead of his return to the ring, leaving the door open for Garcia to potentially become a world champion.
