Oscar De La Hoya on Ryan Garcia’s Opponent: "Teofimo, Ennis, or Another Top Name"

Oscar De La Hoya, the founder and head of Golden Boy Promotions, revealed what’s in store for his client, American boxer Ryan Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs), as he returns to the ring.

"For a boxer, a year-long layoff is never good. So his first fight after coming back should be something of a tune-up, what we call a ‘stay-busy fight’ in boxing—against an opponent who isn’t a world champion.

Right now, whether it’s at 147 pounds (66.7 kg) or somewhere between 140 and 147 (63.5 kg to 66.7 kg), there are plenty of great opponents. As soon as Ryan returns to the ring, finds his rhythm, and has that tune-up—possibly in late April or early May—I want him to fight the best.

That’s exactly what Ryan wants: to challenge himself and face the top fighters—Teofimo Lopez, Jaron Ennis, or another big name. We also still have Devin Haney, who wants a rematch with Ryan Garcia. Who knows, maybe that’ll happen again. But, again, I’ll sit down with Ryan and we’ll come up with a plan," De La Hoya told Fight Hub TV.

In April, Garcia defeated Devin Haney by decision, but due to Ryan’s failed doping test, the result was overturned and the boxer received a one-year suspension.