Ryan Garcia‘s return to action earlier this year didn’t go as planned.
After serving a one-year ban following a failed drugs test for his fight with Devin Haney in Spring 2024, Garcia returned to action with a fight against Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero at Times Square in New York in May.
‘King Ry’ was the favourite heading into the bout, but an upset was caused as he was dropped on his way to a unanimous decision defeat at the hands of Romero.
Garcia is now plotting his next move as he looks to get his career back on track, and seemingly has his sights set on a big name favourite that also recently returned to action, as he told Ring Magazine that he wants a showdown with Manny Pacquiao this December in Las Vegas.
“I’ve been interested in fighting the legendary Manny Pacquiao for a while now. It’s something that you dream of. There were talks in the past of us fighting, and then it fell through. There is a history there. I am always up for the challenge. I would be lying if I said I am not interested. If Manny wants to throw down, let’s do it.”
Pacquiao made his comeback in July after a four-year absence, as he was held to a majority decision draw with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
If a fight between Garcia and Pacquiao can’t be made, ‘King Ry’ revealed that he would also be open to an immediate rematch with Romero – a match-up that has now reportedly in discussions.
“If Manny Pacquiao does want to fight me and make big money in a huge fight, then let’s do it. If not, that’s OK with me. I can fight Rolly in a rematch – either route is OK with me.”
Pacquiao appears to be in demand following his return, with Hall of Famer Shane Mosley also calling out the Filipino for a rematch.
