Teofimo Lopez hinted on 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 KOs) signing a contract on social media today, saying: “The deal is done. The opponent is set.” Teofimo replied to the post saying: “Let the games begin.”
Times Square institution
WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo will be Garcia’s opponent for May in a rumored showdown for Times Square in New York. Haney would also be on the card. One of the options being considered for his warm-up bout is former unified 140-lb 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 fought George Kambosos Jr. once. lost, and he showed no problems with his chin. You’d have to consider Teofimo a much more formidable test for Garcia than Haney.
Is it a mistake for Garcia?
It wouldn’t be surprising if Ryan loses to Lopez, as he’s not the type of opponent he can afford to take a lot of beating or take rounds off like he did in his recent win over Haney on April 20th.
Teofimo was in London for the Ring Awards ceremony last Saturday and looked like one of the nocturnal, sunglasses-wearing mutants from the movie, “Omega Man.” He looked haunted and out of place at the awards. Teo must have thought he looked cool, but he looked like a plague mutant.
Garcia’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, already told Teofimo (21-1, 13 KOs) last Saturday that he wanted Ryan next, 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 made for Turki. De La Hoya feels that Ryan fighting Haney again is a waste of time, but Turki obviously feels differently.
Let the games begin! 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh https://t.co/8UxSx1sWOZ
— Teofimo Lopez (@TeofimoLopez) January 16, 2025
