Many analysts, fans, and boxers themselves use social media as a key tool to fuel interests, start beefs, and propel their fame. The man of the hour, Ryan Garcia, a professional boxer in the Lightweight division, is no stranger to this game. According to his promoter, the boxing legend himself, Oscar De La Hoya, Ryan is merely ‘trolling’ on social media platforms to fire up a fight with the 22-year-old boxing star, Devin Haney. Yet, De La Hoya did not forget to warn Haney that Garcia is not just talk but is in his best form yet physically and mentally.
Garcia had recently announced a break from boxing after pulling out from the bout against Javier Fortuna on July 9, citing mental health concerns. However, upon his return, his social media has been full of jibes at Haney. Observation suggests that this might be a strategic ploy to set up their clash, but it’s worth noting that there’s more to Garcia than just eye-catching social media posts.
In an interview, De La Hoya stated, “Ryan Garcia is enjoying his social media, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t working hard. He’s extremely sharp right now!”. According to De La Hoya, Garcia is ready, motivated, and looking stronger than never before. Garcia, on a winning streak with 21 wins, has been relentlessly training, honing his skills, and focusing on his strategy for the upcoming bouts.
Devin Haney, the WBC lightweight division’s current champion, has been dismissive of Garcia’s trolling and his boxing prowess. But with De La Hoya’s recent comments highlighting Ryan’s sharpness, it’s yet another reason for Haney to reconsider his evaluation of Garcia, if any anticipated bouts are to occur in the future.
On Haney, De La Hoya transparently stated, “Devin needs to be very careful because Ryan is serious, he’s not just some guy on Instagram. He’s a serious fighter.” This comment points to the fact that although Garcia is infamous for his social media stunts, he is a force to be reckoned with in the ring. Doubting his boxing skills based on his social media activity could be a fatal mistake for Haney.
A likely clash between Garcia and Haney, two of the most talented lightweight boxers in the world, has the potential to be a classic. Both with impressive records, this could prove to be a monumental and career-changing fight for both athletes. Garcia’s renewed mental strength matched with his physical sharpness could indeed pose a serious challenge for Haney, despite Garcia’s trolling on social media.
Despite the trolling and dismissive attitudes, it’s clear that the boxing world is anxiously waiting for a face-off between Garcia and Haney. Call it trolling or a strategic move, Garcia definitely knows how to seize attention, and according to his promoter, he is not all talk. As De La Hoya affirms, “Haney should not underestimate the kid.” This phrase shines a light on the fact that Ryan Garcia is not just an Instagram personality but a serious contender in the ring, ready to give a match to remember.
As the world of boxing watches closely, the anticipation is now about when and how this fight will finally play out. No matter the outcome, one thing is sure, Garcia is worth more than his social media affairs, and Haney should in no way overlook his readiness.
