Teofimo Lopez hinted at X that he is the next opponent for Ryan Garcia for his fight in May.
Turki Al-Sheikh posted a photo of Ryan (24-1, 20 KO) signing a contract on social media today, saying: “Deal done. The opponent is set.” Teofimo responded to the post, stating:Let the games begin.”
Times Square coordination
WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo would be Garcia’s opponent for May for a rematch discussed for Times Square in New York. Haney would also be on the card. One of the options being considered for the warm-up bout is former 140-lb unified champion Jose Ramirez.
Fighting Teo is a crazy move on Ryan’s part because he is a better fighter than Haney and, because of his strength, much more dangerous. Lopez has only lost once to George Campos Jr. and hasn’t had any problems with his chin. You’d have to consider Teofimo a much more formidable test for Garcia than Haney.
Is it wrong for Garcia?
It wouldn’t be surprising if Ryan loses to Lopez because he’s not the type of opponent he can afford to hit hard or take rounds like he did in his recent win over Haney on April 20th.
Teofimo was in London last Saturday for the Ring Awards, looking like one of the sunglasses-wearing nocturnal mutants from the film. ‘Omega Man.’ He looked silly and out of place at the awards. Teo probably thought it looked cool, but it looked like a mutated plague.
Garcia’s promoter Oscar De La Hoya already said last Saturday that Teofimo (21-1, 13 KOs) wanted Ryan and not Devin Haney. Ryan is still set to fight Devin in a rematch in October. That’s part of the three-fight deal Garcia reportedly signed for Turki. De La Hoya thinks Ryan’s fight with Haney is a waste of time, but Turki apparently feels differently.
Let the games begin! 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh https://t.co/8UxSx1sWOZ
— Teofimo Lopez (@TeofimoLopez) January 16, 2025
