Ryan Garcia’s roller coaster ride in 2024 saw him go from celebrating a decision win over longtime rival Devin Haney to having the result overturned and getting suspended from professional boxing.
Garcia tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine in connection with the fight, which led to his suspension. He was later embroiled in controversy after making racist and homophobic remarks, leading to his expulsion by the WBC. He’s set to return to the professional boxing ring for the first time since April 2024.
Garcia is currently scheduled to face Rolly Romero for the WBA (Regular) welterweight title. They’ll headline the Fatal Fury event at Times Square in New York on May 2, 2025.
Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero: Age, Height, Weight, and Reach Comparison
Ryan “KingRy” Garcia is the younger fighter at 26, while Rolly Romero (real name Rolando Romero) is 29. Garcia stands 5’9″ with a 70-inch reach. Romero is 5’8″ with a 68-inch reach.
Garcia weighed in at 146.8 pounds. Romero came in slightly lighter at 146.6 pounds. Fighters typically rehydrate and enter the ring heavier on fight night, so their actual fighting weights are usually higher than the official weigh-in.
Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero: Record Comparison
Garcia holds a pro boxing record of 24 wins, one loss, and one no contest. Twenty of his wins have come by KO/TKO.
Romero has a record of 16 wins and two losses, with 13 wins by KO/TKO.
Both fighters are known for using an orthodox stance, with their left foot forward and right foot back.
Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero: Payouts Comparison
According to Sports Illustrated, Garcia reportedly earned $50 million for his most recent fight, a grudge match against Devin Haney in April 2024. His estimated payout for the upcoming fight is around $20 million.
Garcia also suggested during a recent appearance on “Ring Champs with Ak & Barak” that he expects to make $20 million for the Romero bout.
Per Marca, Romero is expected to earn a career-high $5.5 million for his fight against Garcia. He reportedly made $500,000 in a TKO loss to Gervonta “Tank” Davis in 2022 and $850,000 in a TKO loss to Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in a WBA super lightweight title fight in 2024.
Garcia vs. Romero isn’t just a comeback — it’s a clash of styles, stakes, and spotlight. With both fighters looking to make a statement, May 2 could shift the boxing landscape. Whether Garcia silences the noise or Romero seizes his moment, fans are in for a wild ride under the bright lights of Times Square.