The ongoing feud in the world of boxing took an unexpected twist as Bernard Hopkins fired back at Ryan Garcia, explicitly saying he is “not in the business of kissing a**.” This latest retaliation was in response to Garcia’s comments regarding Golden Boy Promotions, the promotional firm representing him and partly-owned by Hopkins.
Tensions between Garcia and his promotional team have been simmering for a while now, culminating in a social media spat. Despite the controversial, and somewhat personal attack from the young boxer, Hopkins, a former world champion himself, remained respectful in his reply.
Bernard Hopkins, a man well-versed in boxing’s politics, has made a name for himself in the field both as a fantastic fighter and a sharp business mind. Hopkins never shied away from the trickier aspects of boxing, navigating his way through the sport’s treacherous waters as a fighter then a promoter, with a finesse only few can boast. This characteristic came to the fore in his latest tête-à-tête with Garcia.
Hopkins is not one to be bullied or blindsided. His response was outright but not inflammatory: “If he’s trying to get me to bend to his will, he’s got the wrong man,” Hopkins stated in an interview. “I’m not in the business of kissing a**,” he further added, pointing out the hard fact of the matter.
That statement from Hopkins exudes the spirit of a man who’s seen it all in the boxing ring; from years of dodging punches to dishing out knockouts, he’s been there and done that. His never-back-down attitude was evident in his comment.
It seems Hopkins intends to give a dose of hard reality to the young fighter. Ryan Garcia might be an exciting prospect in the ring, but he’s choosing to dance on a dangerous line with his continuous outbursts aimed at some of the most influential figures in boxing.
Despite Garcia’s claims that he is being mistreated, Hopkins stated that he does not believe he’s being unfair to the 23-year-old boxing sensation. Instead, he suggested that Garcia’s outbursts may be indicative of immaturity and a lack of understanding about the sport’s business side.
Hopkins’ aim to provide a reality check to Garcia is not isolated. Even Oscar De La Hoya, who’s a part of the promotional franchise along with Hopkins, has questioned Garcia’s attitude and work ethic, prompting Garcia to be more professional about his career.
While the situation between Garcia and his promotional team is not desirable, it does underscore the fact that boxing is just as much a business as it is a sport. Hopefully, this situation serves as a learning curve for Garcia and other young fighters who may find themselves lending an ear to the champion’s words.
It remains to be seen how Garcia will choose to respond to Hopkins’ comments or if it would influence him to reassess his approach. One thing is sure; this drama is bringing into focus the harsh realities and the often-overlooked business side of the sport of boxing.
In the meanwhile, as Hopkins stood his ground, he sent a clear message – he’s here for the sport he loves and its progress, not for pacifying anyone who throws a tantrum. This dogged dedication is what most boxing pundits have loved and respected about Bernard Hopkins throughout his illustrious career.
This unfolding drama, while unpleasant, is undeniably piquing the interest of boxing enthusiasts worldwide, adding another level of complexity to the sport.
