In the heart of Times Square, New York—hosting a boxing event for the first time—the main event has just concluded: Ryan “KingRy” Garcia (24-1-0, 20 KOs, 1 NC) faced off against Rolando “Rolly” Romero (16-2-0, 13 KOs) for the WBA “regular” welterweight title.
The bout, set at the 147-pound limit, was a pivotal moment in the careers of two highly talented yet controversial fighters. Both entered the ring with something to prove: Garcia was making his return after a one-year doping suspension, while Romero sought definitive validation after a series of questionable performances.
Despite the odds favoring Garcia, Romero came out on top with a solid, focused performance, highlighted by a second-round knockdown of Garcia. He won by unanimous decision with scorecards of 115-112 twice and 118-109.
Known for his blazing hand speed and lethal left hook, Garcia was coming off a spectacular win over Devin Haney. However, that victory proved short-lived due to weight issues and a failed drug test that turned the result into a no contest. While that showing reignited interest in his talent, it also raised concerns about his discipline, mental stability, and true boxing ability.
Romero, on the other hand, is an unorthodox and physical fighter—often awkward, but effective. After getting knocked out by Gervonta Davis in 2022, he controversially claimed the WBA super lightweight title against Ismael Barroso in a bout that was stopped prematurely while he was behind on the cards. His subsequent performances—including a KO loss to Isaac Cruz—fueled skepticism about his legitimacy among the division’s elite.
The fight began cautiously. Garcia immediately worked behind a fast, accurate jab, but Romero was well-prepared, keeping a high right hand to block Garcia’s signature hook and countering with strong jabs to the body. The action heated up in the second round. Garcia landed a sharp jab followed by his trademark hook, but Romero blocked it and answered with two quick left hooks—the first catching Garcia clean on the chin and sending him to the canvas. Though Garcia rose quickly and appeared lucid, he seemed wary of Romero’s power. Rather than press recklessly, Romero focused on body shots and avoided unnecessary risks.
Garcia continued using his jab effectively, but his left hook was consistently neutralized by Romero’s solid defense. Romero stuck with body work, landing his jab consistently and showing excellent composure.
Romero clearly benefited from moving up in weight—his physical presence and muscle tone were noticeable. In contrast, Garcia appeared less sharp and considerably less muscular than he did against Haney.
The bout remained highly tactical, with a very low work rate. Both fighters were intent on avoiding heavy shots, leading to several uneventful rounds where neither took meaningful risks. Garcia, in particular, appeared hesitant and unwilling to use his best weapon—the left hook.
Romero was slightly more aggressive overall, but truly significant moments were scarce. A solid right hook in the tenth landed clean on Garcia, who countered wildly and missed. Garcia looked completely neutralized, unable to adapt or vary his strategy. Romero continued his body attack in the eleventh and maintained control with minimal risk.
A virtually non-existent twelfth round confirmed the lack of action in a fight that only briefly ignited in round two. Romero’s win boosts his stock, while Garcia delivered a disappointing performance. He never threatened Romero, showing fear, lack of initiative, and poor adaptability—sticking to the jab and never attempting combinations. Romero now earns a shot at a title fight, while Garcia must find new motivation to rebound from this tough loss and get his title aspirations back on track.