Teofimo vs. Garcia in May? “Let the games begin!”

Teofimo Lopez hinted on X that he is Ryan Garcia’s next opponent for their fight in May.

Turki Al-Sheikh posted a photo of Ryan (24-1, 20 KOs) signing a contract on social media today, saying: “The deal is done. The opponent is ready.” Teófimo responded to the publication saying: “Let the games begin.”

Times Square Overhaul

WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo would be Garcia’s opponent in May for a tune-up fight being discussed in Times Square in New York. Haney would also be on the card. One of the options being considered for his warm-up fight is former unified 140-pound champion José Ramírez.

Fighting Teo is a crazy move on Ryan’s part because he’s a better fighter than Haney and, due to his power, much more dangerous. López has only lost once to George Kambosos Jr. and has shown no problems with his chin. Teófimo would have to be considered a much more formidable test for García than Haney.

Is this a mistake for García?

It wouldn’t be surprising if Ryan loses to Lopez because he’s not the type of opponent he can afford to take a lot of punches or take rounds with like he did in his recent win over Haney on April 20.

Teofimo was in London last Saturday for the Ring Awards ceremony, looking like one of the film’s sunglasses-wearing night mutants. ‘Omega Man.’ It seemed macabre and out of place at the awards. Tim probably thought he looked cool, but he looked like a plague mutant.

García’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, already said last Saturday that Teofimo (21-1, 13 KOs) wanted the next one for Ryan, not for Devin Haney. Ryan will still fight Devin in a rematch in October. That’s the part of the three-fight deal Garcia reportedly signed for Turki. De La Hoya feels that Ryan fighting Haney again is a waste of time, but Turki obviously feels the opposite.

Let the games begin! 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh https://t.co/8UxSx1sWOZ

— Teófimo López (@TeófimoLopez) January 16, 2025