In a dramatic return to the ring, Ryan “Kingry” Garcia faced a tough setback, falling short against Rolly Romero on the night of Friday, May 2, 2025, in the much-hyped “Fatal Fury in Times Square” boxing event. Billed as one of the year’s biggest comebacks, Garcia’s headlining bout was packed with anticipation, but it turned into a gritty, high-stakes battle where Romero’s precision and pressure proved too much for the returning star.
Fighting in the heart of New York, Ryan Garcia pushed through all 12 rounds, but despite his efforts, he couldn’t sway the judges’ verdict. Rolly Romero emerged victorious by unanimous decision, with scorecards reading 115-112, 115-112, and 118-109 — securing a clear and unquestionable win for the talented yet polarizing fighter.
Second-Round Knockdown Set the Tone
Things took an ugly turn early for Garcia. Romero knocked him down in Round 2 with a big right hand, sending the message that this was not going to be a smooth re-entry for the social media favorite.
Even after the early alarm, Garcia proved to have heart, coming back and going the distance. Romero’s counter-punching, body punching, and ring control were the deciding factors, though.
SportSnip Analysis: Garcia still possesses elite hand speed, but Romero revealed his defense holes. Garcia tended to lunge forward aggressively, and Romero was able to land cleaner, sharper counterpunches. It was a chess match Garcia never quite kept up with.
A Comeback That Fell Short of Expectations
This was Garcia’s first bout since April 2024, when his disputed victory against Devin Haney was changed to a no-contest following a failed drug test. Fans envisioned this comeback being a redemption story — instead, it’s yet another setback for an increasingly wild career.
SportSnip Take: The audience was ready for fireworks, but Garcia appeared to battle ring rust and hesitation. The flashy combinations were present in bursts, but the rhythm, endurance, and fight IQ did not live up to.
Co-Main Event Roundup: Haney & Teófimo Shine
While Garcia fumbled, Devin Haney dazzled. He moved to 32-0, outclassing José Carlos RamÃrez with a textbook unanimous decision win. Haney’s performance appeared levels ahead of the rest of the division.
Also on the bill, Teófimo López retained his WBO super-lightweight crown, beating Arnold Barboza Jr. in another clinical performance, demonstrating why he’s still one of the sport’s best.
What’s Next for Ryan Garcia?
Garcia is now in for a difficult time. The blockbuster rematch dream with Devin Haney now appears fainter after this loss, and doubts about his discipline, mental toughness, and long-term appetite are back in the spotlight.
SportSnip Opinion: Garcia still commands a crowd and headlines like few others — but boxing is a results business. He might have to take a tune-up fight before stepping up against another top-5 foe. A fight against Isaac Cruz or William Zepeda would be fitting.
Final Thoughts: The Talent is There — But is the Focus?
Ryan Garcia’s star power has not diminished, but the glow is lost each time the performance fails to live up to the hype. He gritted, he went the distance, but against a veteran fighter like Romero, grit was not sufficient.
If Garcia wishes to continue being a top name in boxing — not merely on Instagram — he will need to change quickly.
