The iconic Times Square in New York City played host to its first ever boxing card on May 2. The five fight bill, which was co-promoted by Oscar De La Hoya‘s Golden Boy Promotions and Eddie Hearn‘s Matchroom Boxing, has received largely negative reviews for its lack of action.
The show was topped by a welterweight showdown between Ryan Garcia and Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, which was contested for the WBA Regular World Title. ‘Rolly’ was declared the winner via unanimous decision in a shock upset.
Devin Haney also made his return to the ring with a unanimous decision win over Jose Ramirez, whilst reigning WBO super-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez made a successful defence of his crown against mandatory challenger Arnold Barboza Jr.
Whilst sharing his thoughts on what was a historic night for boxing, De La Hoya sent a stern warning to Devin Haney as he revealed to Boxing Scene he will ‘never’ work with the two-weight world champion ever again.
“I’ll never, ever put Devin in with one of our guys. I won’t waste my time with Devin because he runs and will continue running.”
Haney has received criticism for a lack of engaging following his performance against Ramirez, which was his first ring appearance since suffering what was initially the first defeat of his career to Ryan Garcia – who is promoted by De La Hoya – last April.
Following the controversy surrounding their first encounter, which led to ‘King Ryan’ being suspended from the sport after failing a drugs test and the result being overturned to a no contest, a rematch had been pencilled in to take place towards the end of the year, but these plans have now been squandered after Garcia suffered that defeat to Romero.
