Sensation in New York: Rolly Romero defeats Ryan Garcia to win the WBA welterweight title.
Times Square, New York – In a thrilling duel under the bright lights of Times Square, Rolando “Rolly” Romero (17-2, 13 knockouts) pulled off a major surprise when he defeated favorite Ryan Garcia (24-2, 20 knockouts) on points to claim the WBA regular welterweight world title on the “Fatal Fury” show.
The judges scored it unanimously: 118-109 and twice 115-112 – a clear victory for Romero, who sent his opponent to the floor with a left hook in the second round. Garcia, who was back in the ring for the first time after being stripped of his win against Devin Haney due to a positive doping test (Ostarine), was unable to find a way back into the fight and looked uninspired for long stretches.
Expectations not fulfilled
For both boxers, it was their debut in the 147-pound welterweight division. Garcia, who had gone into the fight as the 7:1 favorite, was unable to live up to the high expectations. Originally intended as a springboard for a rematch with Devin Haney, the evening turned into a disaster for the Californian star.
Romero, a former world super-lightweight champion with top-level experience, made uncompromising use of his opportunity. He showed aggressive pressing right from the start, controlling the center of the ring and leaving Garcia hardly any room to develop. The knockdown in round two was a wake-up call – but Garcia remained pale.
After the fight, Garcia was visibly dejected on Instagram: “I couldn’t do it tonight. I’m devastated and very sad about my performance. Something just wasn’t right.” This statement marked the end of a bitter evening for Ryan Garcia – and a great triumph for Rolly Romero, who has made an impressive comeback and now has new options in the welterweight division.