.png)
Ryan Garcia is determined to rewrite his story. After a chaotic 2024 that saw him go from shocking the world with an upset victory over Devin Haney to overturning the result due to a failed drug test, Garcia is now focused on redemption.
The 25-year-old returns to the ring on May 2 in New York City, headlining the “Fatal Fury” event against Rolly Romero. But this fight is about more than just securing a win—it’s about reclaiming his respect.
“I want to be great,” Garcia said at the press conference. “I’ve always wanted to fight the best fighters in the sport.”
Leading up to his bout with Haney last April, Garcia raised concerns about his erratic behavior, including missing weight and drinking at the final face-off. Despite these distractions, he delivered a stunning performance, seemingly proving doubters wrong—until the post-fight drug test changed everything.
Handed a one-year suspension, Garcia was forced to reflect. Now, as he steps back into the spotlight, he’s promising a new level of discipline.
“I admit my wrongs,” he said. “I don’t want anybody to take my actions of drinking and smoking before the fight and think that’s the way to handle yourself as a professional.”
Garcia understands that this fight is more than just another entry on his record—it’s about restoring his credibility.
“This is my first fight to get respect back and to prove to everybody that it wasn’t a fluke,” he declared.
Adding even more intrigue to the event, Garcia’s rival, Devin Haney, will also compete on the same card, facing Jose Ramirez in the co-main event. With both fighters eyeing redemption, a rematch later this year could be inevitable—if they handle business on May 2.