In a highly anticipated showdown, Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero is poised to face Ryan Garcia in a 12-round main event fight on Friday night, May 2, 2025, at Times Square in New York City. Romero, with a record of 16 wins and 2 losses (13 KOs), is predicting a "vicious" knockout against Garcia, who returns to the ring after a year-long suspension due to a failed drug test.
The atmosphere in Times Square is electric, as this iconic location hosts a boxing event for the first time, with a ring set up at the heart of the bustling area. The card is stacked with world-class talent, featuring not only the main event but also a title fight between Arnold Barboza Jr. and Teofimo Lopez, and Devin Haney taking on Jose Ramirez.
Romero has not disclosed his exact strategy for achieving the knockout, but he is expected to apply relentless pressure on Garcia, reminiscent of their earlier sparring sessions where Romero dominated. "It’ll be like the sparring video of them from years ago," a source noted, highlighting Romero's aggressive style that left Garcia looking overwhelmed.
Despite his confidence, Garcia's path to victory is not without challenges. His recent inactivity in the ring, having fought only once a year since 2023, raises concerns about his readiness. Moreover, Garcia has faced criticism regarding his focus and mental engagement, particularly after living the lifestyle of a young millionaire at just 26 years old. Romero has pointed out Garcia's weaknesses, including his pain aversion, as demonstrated in his previous fight against Gervonta Davis, where he seemed to quit after a body shot.
“Beating the s out of Ryan,” Romero stated emphatically when asked about his motivation for the fight. “It’s not personal. I just want to beat the s out of him.” This sentiment reflects the intense rivalry between the two fighters, with Romero eager to make a statement and entertain fans with a knockout.
Garcia, on the other hand, is eager to prove his elite status after a tumultuous year that included a controversial fight against Devin Haney, which ended in a no-contest after he tested positive for Ostarine. Following the ban imposed by the New York State Athletic Commission, Garcia is determined to reestablish himself in the welterweight division. This fight is crucial for him, as a win could set up a rematch with Haney, who is also fighting on the same card.
Garcia's return has generated significant buzz, with fans eager to see how he performs after a year away from the ring. Romero has expressed confidence that he can exploit Garcia's weaknesses, stating, “If he’s not elite, I can beat him if I put him under pressure.”
The undercard promises to be equally thrilling, featuring Devin Haney looking to bounce back against Jose Ramirez after a challenging year, and Teofimo Lopez defending his WBO super-lightweight title against Arnold Barboza Jr. Both fights are pivotal for the fighters involved, as they seek to regain momentum in their careers.
As the fight night approaches, fans are buzzing with excitement. The main card is set to begin around midnight BST, with the Garcia vs. Romero fight expected to take place at approximately 4:00 AM BST on Saturday, May 3. UK viewers can catch the action live via DAZN Pay-Per-View, with the standalone PPV priced at £21.99, or a bundle deal available for £34.99, which includes access to the Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull fight the following night.
Garcia enters the bout as the clear favorite, with betting odds reflecting an 89% implied probability of victory, while Romero stands as the underdog at 11%. The stakes are high for both fighters, as they look to secure their place in the welterweight hierarchy and set up future lucrative matchups.
In a unique twist, Romero has expressed his desire to be the one who faces Haney next if he can defeat Garcia. “They’re going to fight regardless, so it has nothing to do with me,” he remarked, acknowledging the potential ramifications of their respective fights.
As fight night draws near, the excitement surrounding this event continues to build. With a mix of talent, drama, and the historic setting of Times Square, boxing fans are in for a memorable evening. The clash between Garcia and Romero is not just a fight; it’s a pivotal moment in both fighters' careers, with implications that could resonate throughout the boxing world.
In conclusion, the boxing event at Times Square is set to be a groundbreaking occasion, showcasing some of the sport's biggest names and captivating storylines. With both fighters eager to prove themselves, fans can expect an action-packed night filled with intensity and drama.
