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via Getty

In an unexpected turn of events, rising boxing star Ryan Garcia opted to skip a potential showdown with Devin Haney. Instead, he’s eyeing a match against the flashy WBA titleholder, Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, citing the potential for “greater business.” This decision sheds light on the current boxing landscape. Recent statistics indicate that Haney’s pay-per-view encounter with Regis Prograis on DAZN struggled to reach 50,000 views.

In light of these underwhelming numbers, Garcia views a bout with Haney as more of a charitable endeavor. This surprising move has reverberated throughout the boxing community, leaving even Garcia’s promoter Oscar De La Hoya, perplexed. Interestingly, prior to this huge announcement, Garcia had been close with boxing legend Floyd Mayweather. This led a lot of fans to wonder about his involvement in the decision, and it turns out De La Hoya suggested something similar.

Oscar De La Hoya sets ground rules for Mayweather

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The rivalry between Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather is very well known and the two have even faced one another in the boxing ring. However, it seems that the bad blood inside the ring has transferred to the outside as well. Mayweather started getting closer to Garcia and the two even went for a run together. However, it was the decision Garcia made afterward that shook the boxing world.

 

 

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De La Hoya recently took to Instagram to share his thoughts on Garcia’s change of heart. He wrote, “Pre-run with Floyd = Ryan wants Haney Post-run with Floyd = Ryan wants Rolly”. He claimed that the promotion will try its best to now promote the Rolly Romero fight. However, he fired shots at Mayweather, questioning his motives. He wrote, “Floyd, if you want to give Ryan the secret to defense in the ring, that’s great. Other than that if you are still a promoter like it says here, f**k off.” His bold words suggest he will not let it go if Mayweather has some ulterior motives.

Garcia jumps in to defend Mayweather

In a recent social media post, 24-1 fighter Ryan Garcia defended his friendship with boxing legend Floyd Mayweather, emphasizing Mayweather’s role as a mentor. Despite facing backlash for their public outings, Garcia expressed his admiration, stating, “Floyd is mentoring me, and I love and respect him.”

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Addressing concerns about potential conflicts with his current coach Derrick James and business ties with Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions, Garcia urged critics to avoid judging by appearances. Even De La Hoya seemed unperturbed, acknowledging the situation might have been a “conflict of interest” in the past.

Read More: “Ryan Garcia Is a Top Fighter”: Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe Backs ‘KingRy’ by Trolling Haters Following Increased Closeness With Floyd Mayweather

The connection between Garcia and Mayweather raised eyebrows due to Garcia’s previous loss to Gervonta Davis, a close associate of Mayweather. Garcia brushed off the criticism, asserting Mayweather’s authenticity and generosity. What do you think about Garcia and Mayweather’s relationship? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.

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