Teofimo vs. Garcia in May? “Let the games begin!”

Teofimo Lopez hinted to X that he is Ryan Garcia’s next opponent for his fight in May.

Turki Al-Sheikh posted a photo of Ryan (24-1, 20 KOs) signing a contract today on social media, saying: “The deal is done. The opponent is ready.” Teofimo responded to the post saying: “Let the games begin.”

Times Square Fit

WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo would be Garcia’s opponent for May for a rumored tune-up fight in Times Square in New York. Haney would also be on the cards. One option being considered for his warm-up bout is former 140-pound unified champion Jose Ramirez.

Fighting Teo is a crazy move on Ryan’s part because he’s a better fighter than Haney and because of his power, he’s much more dangerous. Lopez has only lost once to George Kambosos Jr. and hasn’t shown any problems with his chin. You should consider Teofimo a much more formidable test for Garcia than for Haney.

Is this a mistake for Garcia?

It wouldn’t be surprising if Ryan loses to Lopez because he’s not the type of opponent you can afford to get hit hard by or take rounds like he did in his recent win against Haney on April 20th.

Teofimo was in London last Saturday for the Ring Awards ceremony, looking like one of the film’s nocturnal mutants in sunglasses. ‘Omega Man’. It looked ghoulish and out of place at the awards. Teo probably thought it looked cool, but it looked like a plague mutant.

Garcia’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, already said last Saturday that Teofimo (21-1, 13 KOs) wanted Ryan next, not Devin Haney. Ryan will still fight Devin in a rematch in October. This is part of the three-fight deal Garcia signed for Turki. De La Hoya thinks Ryan fighting Haney again is a waste of time, but Turki obviously feels differently.

Let the games begin! 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh https://t.co/8UxSx1sWOZ

— Teofimo López (@TeofimoLopez) January 16, 2025