Ryan Garcia Falls to Rolando Romero in Unconventional Times Square Bout
NEW YORK — In an unconventional spectacle, Ryan Garcia returned to the boxing ring in Times Square, arriving in a Batmobile, but his night took a downturn when he was knocked down by Rolando "Rolly" Romero in the second round. The fight culminated in Garcia losing by unanimous decision, with scores reflecting Romero’s dominance—115-112 on two cards and 118-109 on the third.
Garcia’s fight marked his comeback after a year-long suspension due to a positive test for performance-enhancing drugs following a controversial victory over Devin Haney. The anticipated rematch with Haney hung in the balance, but only Haney emerged victorious on the night, defeating Jose Ramirez.
The event was marked by lively performances, with ring girls replaced by celebrity impersonators. Romero, now sporting a record of 17-2, gained momentum as the fight progressed, showcasing his confidence and delivering powerful punches. Despite his victory, Romero expressed that he was not focused on vying for Garcia’s place against Haney, suggesting instead that both fighters should have the chance for a rematch.
Garcia (24-2) struggled to find his form, prompting questions regarding the effects of his suspension on his performance. "I think that whole year took a lot off my body physically and mentally," he admitted.
In contrast, Haney (32-0) and Teofimo Lopez, who also won in the night’s lineup, looked agile, showcasing their skills in a venue far removed from typical boxing arenas. The event, envisioned by Turki Alalshikh, was a notable deviation from tradition, featuring an open Seventh Avenue and entertainment that created a unique atmosphere. As the fighters engaged in battle, fans outside the ring were left wondering what was unfolding within.
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