Oscar De La Hoya is thrilled with junior welterweight Ryan Garcia’s drive and willingness to take on big challenges.
Garcia will challenge Devin Haney for his junior welterweight world title on April 20th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
De La Hoya, chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, said Garcia’s boldness harkens back to the days he fought. During his Hall of Fame career, De La Hoya fought Felix Trinidad, Fernando Vargas, Shane Mosley, and even Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.
Even though Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs) has yet to win a world title, there’s no doubt he’s looking for a big challenge. He came in last year when many thought he wouldn’t face Gervonta Davis. And despite being stopped, Garcia took the fight and recovered to defeat Oscar Duarte, earning him his trust. Against Haney (31-0, 15 KOs), Garcia faces another formidable opponent, a fighter he believes to be the best in the division.
“He’s ready to fight the best opponent,” De La Hoya told Beto Duran on Tuesday’s Golden Boy livestream. “There was a time when everyone fought against everyone. Yay, I basically made it. Now we are returning to those times. ”
Oscar De La Hoya: Ryan Garcia Is Willing to Fight the Besthttps://t.co/8jnZTMUNu0
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Cherry-picking or “marinade” fights are perhaps more common in boxing these days. Many argue that it is healthier for the sport as a whole if elite fighters compete against other elite fighters. Contrary to popular belief, De La Hoya said, the strategy of competing hard, even if it means losing, ultimately brings in the most money for fighters.
“That’s what it’s all about. The best fight is the best,” De La Hoya said. “Business will follow.” Money will follow. “If you become a marketable fighter, a fighter who fights the best, a fighter who is willing to risk his undefeated record, the money will follow.”
Garcia, who has a huge following on social media, could have built a lucrative career throwing sand at weak, flawed, and hand-picked opponents in the ring. Say what you will about his problematic behavior leading up to the Haney fight, but it’s hard to argue that Garcia lacks a competitive spirit.
“You get a Ryan who is always ready to fight, ready to go to war, ready to fight his best,” De La Hoya said.
Ashley’s opinion:
Oscar De La Hoya praised Ryan Garcia’s courage and his determination to face Devin Haney for the junior welterweight world title. In an era dominated by elimination, Garcia’s willingness to take on tough opponents reflects the spirit of boxing’s Golden Age. Reflecting on his own storied career, De La Hoya emphasized the importance of a fighter competing against the best, even at the risk of losing him. He believes this approach not only adds value to the sport, but also maximizes the financial benefits for athletes.
