Ryan Garcia’s Rocky Road: Who He Could Fight Next and What’s Distracting Him from Boxing

Ryan Garcia’s recent loss to Rolando “Rolly” Romero has sparked intense debate among boxing fans, analysts, and even his own followers about whether the social media-savvy star still has the hunger to rise to the top. Once seen as one of boxing’s brightest prospects in the lightweight division, Garcia’s unanimous decision loss to Romero wasn't just a blemish—it was a critical blow to his trajectory. The fight lacked the explosive offense Garcia had built his brand on, and questions now loom large over what comes next.

For a fighter like Garcia, who’s always danced on the fine line between superstardom and stagnation, another loss could be career-altering. He needs a big win—not just to reclaim respect in the fight community, but to prove to himself that boxing is still his priority. If he’s serious about getting back on track, the next opponent matters more than ever.

Five Fighters Ryan Garcia Could Face Next:

1. Teofimo Lopez

Teofimo Lopez, the former unified lightweight champion turned super lightweight contender, would offer a massive test for Garcia. Known for his speed and power, Lopez would bring the kind of high-stakes challenge that could either reignite Garcia’s career or bury it. Both fighters share a brash charisma and explosive style—making it a marketable and fan-friendly fight.

2. Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz

Cruz has become a fan favorite for his relentless pressure and no-nonsense attitude. He went the distance with Gervonta Davis and proved he can handle the heat. Garcia’s tendency to rely on counters and range could be tested to the limit against Cruz’s bulldog approach. A win over Cruz would earn Garcia immediate respect.

3. Jack Catterall

A move to the UK could be beneficial for Garcia, and Jack Catterall is a top contender with a growing reputation. Catterall’s controversial loss to Josh Taylor made him a sympathetic figure in boxing circles. A matchup between Garcia and Catterall would test Garcia’s ability to adapt to a slick, technical boxer with elite ring IQ.

4. Devin Haney

Though Haney defeated Garcia in the amateurs and recently lost to Ryan's conqueror, Romero, this would still be a mega-fight. The history between them—both personal and professional—adds real narrative weight. Garcia’s loss to Romero adds an additional wrinkle. Beating Haney would not only get Garcia back on top—it would complete a redemption arc.

5. Chris Colbert

Colbert is flashy, talented, and hungry to break into the sport’s top tier—much like Garcia a few years ago. Both are looking to prove they belong in the title picture, and the winner would catapult forward. This could be a perfect “make-or-break” fight for Garcia to test his focus, skill, and heart.

What’s Distracting Ryan Garcia from His Craft?

Garcia’s recent struggles may not be purely physical or tactical—they could stem from a growing list of distractions pulling him away from the singular focus required of elite fighters.

One of the most talked-about aspects of Garcia’s life outside the ring has been his passion for poker. In 2023, he participated in the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, finishing an impressive 566th out of over 10,000 entrants and walking away with $32,500. While this performance may seem admirable on the surface, it raises questions about time allocation. Competing at the WSOP isn't just a hobby—it demands preparation, long hours, and mental focus. Garcia will have taken inspiration from the likes of Chris Moneymaker, who went from winning a satellite game online to becoming a sporting icon by winning the WSOP when he was still a full-time accountant. Moneymaker has gone on to be a figurehead in the sport, leading Americas Cardroom to become the biggest online poker site in the UK as well as mentoring a number of high-profile sportsmen along the way. Garcia, while wholly committed to boxing, will no doubt have one eye on the lucrative prize money endorsement deals available on the poker circuit.

Boxing legend Chris Eubank Jr. has faced similar scrutiny for his own poker interests. Accused of owing Neymar £4 million in poker debts (an unverified claim), Eubank’s story highlights the potential for poker to become more than just a pastime—it can become a serious distraction. Garcia, unlike Eubank, is still in the phase of trying to establish himself as a dominant force. For him, every ounce of energy matters. He even bet on himself to beat Devin Haney and reportedly walked away with $2 million, according to Talk Sport.

Beyond poker, Garcia’s deep engagement with social media and influencer culture has often pulled him in multiple directions. From Instagram sparring callouts to off-topic live streams, he walks a fine line between promoting his brand and diluting his focus. While his fanbase adores his accessibility, critics argue it's come at the expense of discipline.

Then there are the off-camp dramas: public disputes with promoters, inconsistent training habits, and spiritual detours. Garcia has publicly discussed his mental health, which deserves respect and understanding, but consistency remains key in a sport where timing, sharpness, and routine are everything.

Ryan Garcia is at a career crossroads. The loss to Romero was a wake-up call, not just to fans but perhaps to Garcia himself. The talent is still there. The speed. The power. The charisma. But to harness it all again, he must strip away the distractions and make boxing his singular focus.

The next opponent he chooses—and how he prepares for that fight—could define the rest of his career. Whether he bounces back or fades into influencer limbo depends on a decision only he can make. The clock is ticking, and the boxing world is watching.