Ryan Garcia and Rolly Romero are set to face off in a boxing match on May 2 in Times Square, New York. The fight will kick off a packed Cinco de Mayo weekend of boxing events.
Garcia was originally slated to fight Isaac Cruz, but Cruz couldn't recover and prepare in time after his February 1 bout against Angel Fierro. Romero seized the opportunity to step in.
"I just made a phone call. I wouldn't even say I talked my way into it,"Romero said about securing the fight with Garcia.
The May 2 card in Times Square will feature a star-studded lineup. Garcia, Devin Haney, and Teofimo Lopez will all compete against tough opponents. This event kicks off what might be the best three-day span in boxing history, with Canelo Alvarez fighting on Saturday and Naoya Inoue on Sunday.
Garcia has been open about his struggles with depression, while Romero is known for his outspoken nature and ability to grab headlines. Romero was knocked out by Isaac Cruz last March but has since bounced back.
The two fighters have a history. They sparred several times when they were younger, which led to some tension. However, their relationship has improved recently. Romero reached out to Garcia about his depression struggles.
"So I DM'd Ryan and asked for his number. He was like [no], and I'm like, 'No, some things are bigger than boxing'. He gave me his number. We talked. And we've been good ever since,"Romero explained.
With Lopez potentially facing the toughest matchup on paper, all eyes will be on Times Square come May 2. The Garcia-Romero bout promises to deliver an exciting start to a memorable weekend of boxing.
