Boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya has revealed he will meet with Ryan Garcia's manager this week, intending to submit four potential names for Garcia’s next fight. Scheduled for August, this bout is meant to establish Garcia at 140 pounds against a top-five or ten contender.
De La Hoya has kept the specifics of the potential opponents under wraps, hinting that they could be experienced fighters who may not pack the most potent punch. With potential contenders like Richardson Hitchins, Steve Sparks, Gary Antuanne Russell, Jose Ramirez, Arnold Barboza, and Kenneth Sims on the horizon, it's clear Garcia has his work cut out for him. Critics suggest that Garcia may struggle in this weight category, predicting a quick retreat back to the 135-pound division if faced with defeat.
Garcia has stirred some intrigue with his recent Twitter activity, expressing interest in taking on newly minted WBA light welterweight champion Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero. However, speculation is rife that this might be more of a publicity stunt than a genuine callout, leaving fans to question Garcia's sincerity.
“We’re talking about the top names at 140; we’re talking about contenders. Keep in mind it’ll be his first fight fighting at 140. So you have to get him a top 10, top 5 fighter to establish with a name, obviously. Ryan Garcia is the one selling the show and selling the tickets, so we’ll make sure we get a good opponent,” De La Hoya said in a recent interview with ESNEWS.
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