Ryan Garcia Calls Out Teofimo Lopez

Ryan Garcia called out Teofimo Lopez as he targets that bout on his return. 

Garcia is currently banned from boxing after failing VADA tests for Ostarine. The decision meant his victory against Devin Haney became a no-contest. It was a massive blow since Garcia’s social media following had increased exponentially, aiding his claim to be the ‘face of boxing.’ During the period of his ban, Garcia’s behavior has caused alarm. His ex-wife, Andrea Celina, stated he had broken into her apartment because she denied him access to his children.

This was after concerns over Garcia’s potential substance abuse. The WBC also banned Garcia for a series of derogatory comments on social media against Christians, African Americans and Muslims. Teofimo Lopez also had his say on Garcia’s behavior. He brought up an instance where he recalled missing out on a Gatorade deal as the company chose Garcia. Lopez’s rejection was based on his unhappiness with something the company wanted him to do. Lopez alleged Garcia sold his soul while also bringing up Ryan’s mother, who has cancer. That did not sit well with Ryan, who hit back. 

Lopez Vs. Garcia

“I’m talking to Ryan Garcia here. I know you want to fight me when you see me in person. That’s fine. I didn’t mean no bad towards your mother in that essence. If you really look into it, I did say I really do wish your mum nothing but health. Cancer is not something to play with. But people are going to say what they’re going to say and tell you specifically that part of it and not talk about the good that I meant. But to each his own. If you want to duke it out outside the ring, I’ve got to defend myself, brother. So you’ve got to be the stupid guy to throw first,” Lopez said

Now, Ryan has targeted Lopez on his return. 

“Ryan Garcia vs Teofimo Lopez. For my return in April. Let’s make it happen Teo,” Ryan revealed

Will It Happen?

Any fight would have to happen above 140. Garcia failed to make the 140-pound limit when he faced Haney. Ryan indicated that he would no longer fight in that weight class. Lopez has hinted that he wants to move up to 147. He has been targeting the Terence Crawford fight. But that is unlikely to happen at 147 since Bud has moved up to 154. Getting Lopez to jump two weight classes immediately reduces the odds against him.

A fight with Garcia would not only prove lucrative, but it would give Lopez a solid chance of getting a win. Lopez has an impressive resume, having been in the ring with Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor. He beat Loma, a three-weight world champion and a future Hall of Famer. Meanwhile, Taylor is the former Undisputed Junior Welterweight Champion. Lopez’s experience is far more than Garcia, while he also has the chance to potentially earn the most amount of money in his career.  

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