Expectations were high for Ryan Garcia’s debut at Crypto.com Arena on Saturday and he lived up to the hype. The lightweight contender managed to earn the 23rd victory of his career against former super featherweight champion Javier Fortuna.
Garcia looked dominant in his homecoming bout. As NBA Champion Draymond Green, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and several others watched from ringside, the rising contender used his right hand to set up punishing shots to the body. Over time, Garcia’s work to the body was just too much for the 13-year veteran as he sent Fortuna to the canvas three times. Midway through the sixth round, the former super featherweight champion failed to beat the count and Garcia emerged with the win.
Having moved past Fortuna, Garcia can look forward to a potential showdown with Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Leading up to his showdown with Fortuna, Garcia was vocal about his interest in fighting the undefeated lightweight contender.
“I think it’s quite obvious that’s [what] we’re headed towards. I mean…I’ve spoken about it so many times. Obviously, once I get past Fortuna, I’m [definitely] going to be campaigning for that fight with Gervonta Davis,” he told Fight Hype.
Following his most recent victory, Garcia reasserted his desire to fight the Baltimore native.
“If he wants it, let’s get it,” he told Chris Mannix of DAZN.
“I’m never afraid. I have the spirit of competition in me.”
As the lightweight division continues to heat up, fans should be cautiously optimistic about a showdown between the two undefeated fighters within the next six to eight months.
RYAN GARCIA ENDS IT ?#GarciaFortuna pic.twitter.com/yiXv4kGkp0
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 17, 2022
