Former Rivals, New Weight Class: Ryan Garcia Challenges Unstoppable Ortiz Jr.

A shakeup in the boxing world has resulted in an intriguing matchup between rising stars Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Ryan Garcia. The originally planned super welterweight fight between Ortiz and Tim Tszyu fell through due to Tszyu's lingering injury. Enter Ryan Garcia, volunteering to step up two weight classes and face his former amateur rival.

From Social Media to Signed Contracts

Garcia's social media callout, boasting a 3-0 record against Ortiz in the amateurs, didn't go unanswered. Ortiz quickly accepted the challenge, greenlighting the fight with his manager. With both fighters signed to Golden Boy Promotions, the stage is set for a potential clash between two of Oscar De La Hoya's most promising prospects.

A Long-Awaited Dance?

This fight has been simmering for years. De La Hoya previously hinted at the inevitability of a matchup between his prized fighters. Both Ortiz and Garcia have expressed their willingness to meet in the ring, acknowledging the potential for an exciting and lucrative fight.

More Than Just an Undercard

While Ortiz was originally slated for the undercard of a major event headlined by Terence Crawford and Israil Madrimov, the organizers have promised "upgraded fights" after Tszyu's withdrawal. This sudden change could elevate the Garcia-Ortiz bout to a more prominent position on the card.

Garcia's Quest for Redemption

Garcia (25-1, 20 KOs) is looking to redeem himself after a recent controversy. A positive test for a banned substance prior to his win over Devin Haney left a stain on his record. His team maintains the positive results stemmed from contaminated supplements.

Eyes on the Welterweight Division

Despite the late weight-class change, Garcia seems intent on establishing himself in the welterweight (147 lbs) division. He has even expressed interest in facing top contenders like Errol Spence Jr. and Sebastian Fundora at the super welterweight (154 lbs) limit.

Ortiz on a Roll

Ortiz (21-0, 21 KOs) is riding a wave of success after two consecutive first-round knockouts following a period plagued by injuries. He presents a formidable challenge for Garcia, boasting a perfect record and a reputation for ferocious power.

This unexpected fight promises fireworks. Can Garcia pull off an upset in a higher weight class, or will Ortiz continue his dominant streak? Boxing fans will have their eyes glued to the ring on August 3rd.