Details are still emerging about how Times Square will be transformed into an outdoor boxing arena, but the quality of the upcoming event is undeniable. The fight card, featuring three main bouts, was officially announced at a press conference on Tuesday. Boxing fans can expect to see some of the sport’s biggest stars in action, all competing to set up even larger fights later in the year.
The event boasts a lineup of exciting matchups: Ryan Garcia versus Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, Devin Haney against Jose Ramirez, and Teofimo Lopez Jr. facing Arnold Barboza Jr. Below is a breakdown of each fight, ranked by anticipated importance.
3. Ryan Garcia vs. Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero (Junior Welterweight)
Ryan Garcia returns to the ring after a year-long suspension, and expectations are high for a strong performance. His last fight, though controversial, generated significant buzz.
Garcia’s previous bout saw him knock down Devin Haney three times, initially securing a win by decision. However, the result was later changed to a no contest after Garcia tested positive for a banned substance.
With Haney also fighting on this card, the winner of Garcia vs. Romero – especially if it’s the popular Garcia – is likely to move on to face the winner of Haney vs. Ramirez. A potential rematch between Haney and Garcia in Saudi Arabia later in the year is already generating considerable interest.
Romero, residing in Las Vegas, has a high knockout rate of 81%. The question is whether he possesses the power to trouble Garcia as he moves up in weight. Romero, 29, has lost two of his last four fights. Garcia, 26, from Los Angeles, is known for his powerful and fast punches. This fight has the potential to be a real show-stealer.
2. Devin Haney vs. Jose Ramirez (Welterweight)
Devin Haney, similar to Lopez, is seeking to reclaim the spotlight after a year away from the ring. His last fight resulted in a setback against Garcia, where he was knocked down three times and lost by majority decision. While Garcia’s subsequent issues, including missing weight and failing a drug test, led to the fight being declared a no contest, Haney still needs to prove himself after that performance. He was vulnerable to Garcia’s left hook, and the loss impacted his standing. Haney needs a decisive win to maintain his earning potential.
This fight offers Haney, 26 and based in Las Vegas, an opportunity to rebuild momentum. His boxing skills should prove too much for the 32-year-old Ramirez. Both fighters are making their debut in the welterweight division. If Haney can regain the form he showed in 2023, when he defeated Vasiliy Lomachenko and Regis Prograis, he will once again be a major player in the division.
Ramirez, a former unified junior welterweight champion from Avenal, California, has suffered defeats to Barboza and Josh Taylor. At 29-2, this fight is crucial for his career, making him a dangerous opponent.
1. Teofimo Lopez Jr. vs. Arnold Barboza Jr. (WBO Junior Welterweight Title)
This fight is a perfect platform for Lopez to solidify his position as a leading figure in boxing in the coming year. The sport is looking for a new, charismatic star to attract mainstream attention, filling the void left by established names.
While Garcia vs. Romero is officially the main event, Lopez is the top-ranked fighter on the card. Although Garcia has a larger social media presence, Lopez has a clear path to elevate his profile, especially with a potential title unification fight against Richardson Hitchins on the horizon if he defeats Barboza.
However, Lopez needs to improve upon his last performance in June, where he won against Steve Claggett but failed to impress. His victory over Jamaine Ortiz the previous year was also criticized for a lack of excitement.
Lopez, a two-division world champion, has demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion, notably when he defeated Vasiliy Lomachenko in 2020. Barboza’s challenge could bring out the best in Lopez, especially on what might be the biggest stage of his career.
Barboza, from Los Angeles, earned this title shot with his recent victory over Jack Catterall. Barboza, 33, won by split decision in England and is entering his first world title fight in peak form, having also defeated former champion Jose Ramirez previously. Can he pull off an even bigger upset against Lopez?
