Ryan Garcia Slams De La Hoya’s Claim That He Could Fight Pacquiao

Ryan Garcia has lashed out after his promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, claimed that he could fight Manny Pacquiao next.

Following Garcia’s seventh-round TKO loss to Gervonta Davis, much has been said about his future. A move up to 140 lbs was followed by the appointment of Derrick James.

The change in approach also led to new potential opponents. Garcia himself had stated that he would be open to fighting Rolly Romero, Isaac Cruz or Teofimo Lopez next.

So the fact that an aging Pacquiao has been mentioned, coupled with the fact that he has retired from the sport, came out of the blue.

“It’s a very real option for both guys because imagine Ryan Garcia – Manny Pacquiao fight at a catchweight, can be the biggest fight for both guys.

“Manny’s a small guy to start off with. All his weight is in his calves. He’s got big calves, strong calves, but yeah, I can see that fight happening at 142, 143, maybe.

“Rolly’s a fun fighter to watch. Him and Ryan would be a very entertaining fight, but the biggest fight out there for Ryan would be a Manny Pacquiao,” De La Hoya

This isn’t happening!!

I said what I wanted…

It’s frustrating.. tired of this https://t.co/KxV042D7o8

— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) June 1, 2023

“This isn’t happening. I said what I wanted,” Garcia

The difference in opinion could be pivotal to Garcia’s career moving forward. Garcia’s stock still remains high even with the Davis loss due to his mass following.

However, a loss to an aging Pacquiao could derail his career at a time when the fighter is entering his peak.