Ryan Garcia next fight has been thrown into fresh uncertainty after Oscar De La Hoya launched a scathing attack on Devin Haney and the WBA. The Golden Boy Boxing founder has ruled out a rematch between Garcia and Haney and instead set his sights on a different comeback route for the troubled American star. Garcia, who remains suspended following a failed drug test, is still expected to return later this year, but De La Hoya insists it won’t be against Haney.
Ryan Garcia next fight will not be against Devin Haney
Speaking to the media, Oscar De La Hoya dismissed the idea of Garcia stepping back into the ring with Haney. He criticised the lightweight champion’s recent performances and questioned the value of a rematch. According to De La Hoya, Garcia has already proven his point by beating Haney, and there’s little appetite for a second bout. He also accused Devin Haney of running and spoiling fights rather than putting on exciting shows for fans. As far as De La Hoya is concerned, a rematch is off the table and the focus is now on new challenges for Garcia.
The comments are the latest twist in a turbulent year for the 25-year-old Californian. After stunning Haney with three knockdowns in their first meeting, Garcia’s victory was soon overshadowed by a positive drug test result. He denied knowingly taking any banned substances, but both his A and B samples tested positive. The fight result is still expected to be changed to a no contest and Garcia is currently serving a suspension. Despite this, De La Hoya has stood by his fighter and insists he is still central to Golden Boy’s plans for the rest of 2025.
De La Hoya wants redemption against Rolly Romero
Garcia’s first fight back from his suspension came earlier this month against Rolando Romero for the WBA super lightweight title. But instead of redemption, the night ended in disappointment. Romero dropped Garcia early and outboxed him over twelve rounds, claiming a wide decision win. The result left Garcia without a belt and raised questions about his readiness after a year out.
Oscar De La Hoya, however, believes the loss can be avenged. He has already called for a rematch with Romero and has urged the WBA to make it happen. He also accused the WBA of causing confusion in the division and hinted that politics may be delaying Garcia’s route back to a title shot. While other names like Ohara Davies have been mentioned as potential challengers for Romero, De La Hoya is adamant Garcia deserves a second chance.
With the Haney rivalry off the radar, Romero has become the clear target for Garcia’s next move. A rematch would offer Garcia the chance to win back the title and silence critics following his recent setbacks. For De La Hoya, it’s the perfect opportunity to rebuild his fighter’s brand while keeping him in the world title mix.
What this means for Garcia’s future
The message from De La Hoya is clear. Ryan Garcia’s next fight needs to be meaningful, exciting, and a step back toward a world title. Whether that means running it back with Romero, or potentially facing another top name at 140 pounds, the goal is to re-establish Garcia’s credibility and get him back in the title picture.
