It seems that there’s one less obstacle in the way of the much-anticipated clash between Ryan Garcia and Gervonta Davis.
The two young, undefeated stars recently agreed to a Las Vegas showdown at 136lb, with April 15 the scheduled date. Whilst the news was met with appreciation from fans who too often don’t see big fights like this made, there are still some caveats.
‘Tank’ Davis is booked to fight Hector Luis Garcia on January 7 in Washington, having last fought in May and looking to shake some ring rust off before heading into what could be the toughest test of his career in ‘KingRy.’
It was assumed – and even planned – that Garcia would do the same. However, ESPN now reports that a fight with Mercito Gesta towards the end of January has been cancelled, despite contracts being signed.
Garcia seemed to confirm the news in a series of tweets.
“F**k the tune up. Bring on Tank. SPARKING HIM OUT IN 2.”
“Been thinking about it during the time they were figuring out this fight and I feel the fans and everyone who supports boxing have seen tune-ups already. It’s time we give the fans what they want. Also, [Davis] requested the tune-up, not me, so let him handle business.”
Been thinking about it during the time they were figuring out this fight and I feel the fans and everyone who supports boxing have seen these tune ups already it’s time that we give the fans what they want. Also he requested the tune up not me so let him handle business. LETS GO
— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) December 17, 2022
The decision certainly eliminates risk in terms of a shock loss before the Davis fight, but, on the other hand, also means that when he steps into the ring in April 2023 it will be the first time in eight months, whilst ‘Tank’ will be – if all goes to plan – fresh off a victory two months prior.
Of course, Garcia has more time in the gym, but many fighters will tell you that that doesn’t compare to minutes in the ring.
The decision paints a picture of a confident Garcia, who will enter the bout in Vegas with a 23-0 record complete with 19 knockouts. What ‘Tank’s CV looks like will depend on what the undefeated Hector Luis Garcia has to say in Washington – and the man is certainly no walkover.