Rolando Romero Shocks Ryan Garcia in Times Square Showdown

By William Dumoulin
Photo credit: Matchroom Boxing

Romero Stuns Garcia in Underwhelming Main Event at Historic Times Square Debut

In the first-ever boxing event held at the iconic Times Square, Ryan Garcia (24-2, 20 KOs) and Rolando Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) headlined a night that failed to live up to the hype. The highly anticipated clash between two heavy hitters fizzled after Garcia was dropped in the second round, with both fighters spending the rest of the bout at a distance, hesitant to engage in power exchanges.

Romero emerged victorious via unanimous decision (115-112 twice, 118-109), pulling off one of the biggest upsets in recent boxing memory. He entered the ring as a significant underdog according to oddsmakers. The loss now casts serious doubt over the proposed fall rematch between Garcia and Devin Haney.

“The Dream” Returns with a Win in First Bout Since 2024

In his first appearance since a controversial outing against Ryan Garcia, former undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney (32-0, 15 KOs) faced top contender Jose Ramirez (29-3, 18 KOs). Haney showcased elite movement throughout the fight, effectively neutralizing Ramirez and preventing him from landing his trademark power shots.

Despite the bout being widely panned as uneventful, Haney cruised to a unanimous decision win (119-109 twice, 118-110). As previously planned, Haney was set to face Garcia in a rematch this fall—but with Garcia’s recent loss, could a showdown with Rolando Romero now be on the horizon?

Lopez Cruises in Third Title Defense

Teofimo Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs) made his third successful defense of the WBO super lightweight title against previously unbeaten mandatory challenger Arnold Barboza Jr. (32-1, 11 KOs). Relying on slick counterpunching and fluid movement, Lopez dominated from start to finish. His superior athleticism was evident, as Barboza struggled to make any meaningful adjustments.

Lopez retained his belt via unanimous decision (116-112 twice, 118-110), reaffirming his place atop the 140-pound division.