A trip to the Barclays Centre to watch Gervonta Davis fight gave Danny Garcia a taste of what he had been missing.
The former two-weight world champion returns for his ninth fight at the Brooklyn venue against Jose Benavidez Jr on July 30.
Garcia has been out of the ring for 18 months since losing to Errol Spence Jr for the unified welterweight championship. The Philadelphian will now campaign at super welterweight beginning next month at his favourite arena.
Speaking during a virtual press conference for next month’s bout, Garcia said:
“I felt the atmosphere at Barclays Center at the Gervonta Davis fight and I felt what I was missing.”
“I went there to feel that motivation and it was great. We’re going to give everyone a great night just like at that last fight. ”
“I was in the first main event at Barclays Centre, and I’ve been building a fanbase there over the last 10 years. Brooklyn is the perfect place to build a fanbase and I’m honoured to be a part of Barclays Centre’s history.”
And the 34-year-old believes fighting at the bigger frame of 154lbs will suit him and provide a more youthful presence in the ring.
“I’ve been fighting at 140 and 147 since the amateurs, for 13 years. I always felt my natural weight was bigger and I was squeezing down. I feel like this weight fits me good. I feel young and fresh. I’m strong and with a lot more stamina.”
Garcia admits that fighting at such a high level for ten years against premier opposition began to take its toll on him and a break was needed.
“It’s only right as a human that you would get a little mentally tired. I needed a break so that I could miss boxing.”
“I knew that once I came back in the gym motivated and missing the sport, that nobody could beat Danny Garcia.”