Oscar De La Hoya has commented on Ryan Garcia’s recent announcement that he would not be having a tune up fight before facing Gervonta Davis next year – and he believes the young star is making a big mistake.
Garcia took to social media to reveal that, despite strong initial reports to the contrary, he has opted to go straight into a mega fight with Davis without facing a lower level opponent in the interim.
And his promoter De La Hoya admitted to FightHype he is expecting to see the best version of Davis when the pair meet, and that Garcia’s decision could prove to be costly.
“We saw what Ryan posted, and we have to respect it, we have to respect his decision. I understand Ryan’s frustrations, and I understand the people’s frustration – the fans want to see Ryan vs ‘Tank,’ that is it.”
“Look, Davis is going to have a tune up fight. His tools are going to be very sharp for when he faces Ryan Garcia in April. Ryan’s decided to bypass the tune up and go straight to ‘Tank.’ ”
“I strongly feel it’s a big mistake, but we just have to wish him the very best and for him to stay in shape, stay in the gym, continue sparring, stay focused and wait for that big day.”
Most in the boxing world expected ‘KingRy’ to take a warm up fight in early next year, with a bout against Merito Gesta on January 28 believed to have been agreed in principle.
Depending on what date is finalised for a showdown with Davis, Garcia could potentially have nearly a year’s worth of ring rust to shake off by the time the two step into the ring. If the April 15 date goes ahead, it will be nine months out for the undefeated fighter.
Three-weight world champion Davis has been out of action since May, and will face Hector Luis Garcia on January 7 in Washington.