Garcia is defeated by Romero via Unanimous Decision
In the lively Times Square on a Friday night (May 3, 2025, PH time), Ryan Garcia (24-2, 1 NC) took a crushing blow from Rolando Romero (17-2), ending in a unanimous decision defeat. The Batmobile-arriving Garcia hit the mat after a powerful left hook from Romero in the second round.
As the fight progressed, Romero grew more confident, landing precise blows that left Garcia reeling. The judges scored the bout 115-112, 115-112, and 118-109, favoring Romero.
Ryan Garcia's last fight was a year ago due to a year-long suspension following a positive drug test against Devin Haney. A previous victory was later overturned.
The anticipated rematch between Garcia and Haney now seems uncertain. Although Haney beat Jose Ramirez in their bout, Garcia's loss shuffled the deck.
The event also saw Teofimo Lopez successfully defending his junior welterweight title against Arnold Barboza Jr.
Rolando "Rolly" Romero scored a notable upset, beating Ryan Garcia via unanimous decision (115-112, 115-112, 118-108). The deciding blow happened early in Round 2, disrupting Garcia's rhythm and leaving him wary of engaging. (Enrichment Data)
Post-fight, Ryan Garcia cited physical and mental fatigue from his year-long layoff as reasons for his performance. Romero hinted at a rematch with Devin Haney being on the table. (Enrichment Data)
Despite the win, Devin Haney's performance against José Ramírez was underwhelming, marked by low punch output. Fans and critics alike criticized his tentative approach. (Enrichment Data)
Rolando Romero's surprising victory complicates plans for a potential Garcia-Haney rematch. Factors at play include fan demand and Romero's newfound leverage as a welterweight contender. (Enrichment Data)
With this defeat, Garcia is left needing a fresh start, while Haney faces pressure to deliver more effective performances to sustain his status. (Enrichment Data)
Teofimo Lopez retained his junior welterweight title against Arnold Barboza Jr., but the spotlight was stolen by Rolando "Rolly" Romero, who delivered a surprising upset against Ryan Garcia via unanimous decision (115-112, 115-112, 118-108). Romero hinted at a possible rematch with Devin Haney, who faced criticism for his underwhelming performance against José Ramírez, marked by low punch output. The anticipated Garcia-Haney rematch now seems uncertain due to Romero's victory and his newfound leverage as a welterweight contender.
