Ryan Garcia`s return to the ring proved disastrous.
Making his comeback on Friday night after serving a suspension related to his 2024 bout with Devin Haney (originally a win, later ruled a no-contest), Garcia faced Rolando `Rolly` Romero in the headlining event, titled “Fatal Fury: City of Wolves”. This fight was widely expected to pave the way for a Haney rematch, but Romero had other plans.
Despite being a significant underdog, Romero appeared the more assured and effective boxer throughout much of the contest, confusing Garcia and securing a knockdown in the second round against “King Ryan”. Romero maintained control thereafter, landing powerful blows and dictating a slow tempo. The fight ultimately saw the third-lowest number of punches thrown in a 12-round contest in history, concluding with Romero earning a decisive victory via unanimous decision with scores of 115-112, 115-112, and 118-109.
Following the bout, Garcia showed good sportsmanship by acknowledging Romero`s strong performance.
“He fought a good fight, caught me early,” Garcia commented. “No excuses. Congratulations to him; he fought well, and that`s it.”
Garcia added,
“I think that past year took a significant toll on me, both physically and mentally. I`m just glad I made it to the ring and completed 12 rounds.”
Romero remained humble after his win. Although his victory potentially delays a Garcia-Haney rematch, Romero quickly expressed his desire to still see that fight happen.
“I`m not even thinking about what`s next,” Romero stated. “I believe Devin and Ryan should have their rematch; it would be a massive fight.”
Given Devin Haney`s disappointing performance in his earlier victory over Jose Ramirez on the same night, it`s plausible that the Haney-Garcia rematch could still occur.
