Ryan Garcia Slams Errol Spence Jr for Parting Ways with Coach Derrick James
Emerging superstar and lightweight boxing sensation Ryan Garcia isn’t one to shrink away from sharing his opinions. Recently, the champion diverged from his normally diplomatic demeanor to voice his disappointment regarding a pivotal shift in the welterweight division: Errol Spence Jr‘s decision to part ways with his long-standing trainer, Derrick James.
Garcia, who just a few short months ago, brilliantly overcame Luke Campbell to solidify his place among the elites, was clearly perturbed by the news. Who wouldn’t be? Coach and ward, James and Spence Jr had together formed a pair as indomitable as they are inseparable – until now.
“You can’t just abandon those who brought you up,” Garcia bemoaned. “Especially not when they’ve given so much to your success. Spence Jr leaving Derrick James…It’s just not a move I can stand by.”
The lightweight champ’s words carry weight. Under James’ tutelage, Spence Jr has developed into one of the most formidable fighters in the welterweight division, boasting a perfect 27-0 record. They have weathered through the stormy ups and downs of the welterweight division, collecting the IBF and WBC belts along the way. James was also there to help Spence rebound post the horrific car accident that might have ended his career.
While the reasons behind Spence’s decision have not been revealed publicly, speculation has been rife in the boxing community. Some suggest it could be related to his near-fatal car accident in 2019, which temporarily sidelined him from the sport. Others attribute it to a possible career recalibration, given Spence is now primed to challenge the other powerful figures in the welterweight segment.
Garcia, however, sees it differently. “It’s loyalty,” he commented. “You have to remember where you came from. Errol Spence Jr. should remember the countless hours he’s spent training with James. Those are moments of struggle, of triumph, which you simply can’t put a price on.”
While Garcia’s outburst has taken many by surprise, it underscores a reoccurring theme in professional boxing – trainer changes. Champions such as Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao have all changed trainers during their careers. But long-standing partnerships like that of Spence Jr. and James have a different charm – one that strikes a chord with the boxing fraternity.
This isn’t the first time that Garcia has publicly voiced his opinions, despite being relatively new to the sport. He is known for his strong personality and fearlessness both inside and outside the ring. While his words might ruffle some feathers, they reflect the sentiment of a considerable section of fans who have appreciated the Spence Jr-James duo over the years.
The fallout from this split would only be measured in time. What is certain, though, is that the departure of Spence Jr from Derrick James‘ camp marks the end of an era in welterweight boxing. But as they say, change is the only constant, and perhaps this shift might prove beneficial for Spence in the long run.
These shifts and twists indeed make the sport unpredictable and exciting. For now, Spence Jr and Garcia continue doing what they do best- stirring up storms inside the ring, and occasionally, outside it too.
