Teofimo Lopez hinted on X that he is Ryan Garcia's next opponent in their fight in May.
Turki Al-Sheikh posted a picture of Rayyan (24-1, 20 KO) signing the contract on social media today, saying: “The agreement has been reached.” The opponent is ready.” Teofimo responded to the post, saying: “Let the games begin.”
Times Square setting
WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo will be Garcia's opponent for May in a much-talked about set fight in New York's Times Square. Haney will also be on the card. One option being considered for his warm-up fight is former 140-pound unified champion Jose Ramirez.
Fighting Teo is a crazy move on Ryan's part because he is a better fighter than Hani, and because of his strength, he is much more dangerous. Lopez has only lost once to Jorge Kambosos Jr., and has not shown any issues with his chin. You have to consider Teofimo as a much tougher test for Garcia than Haney.
Is this wrong for Garcia?
It wouldn't be a surprise if Ryan loses to Lopez as he's not the type of opponent who can afford to take a lot of hits or take walks like he did in his last win over Haney on April 20.
Teofimo was in London last Saturday to attend the Ring Awards, and he looked like one of the sunglasses-wearing night shifters from the movie, “Omega man.” He looked ghoulish and out of place at the awards show. Teo may have thought it looked cool, but he looked like a mutant plague.
Garcia's promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, said last Saturday that Teofimo (21-1, 13 KOs) wants him next for Ryan, not Devin Haney. Ryan will still fight Devin in a rematch in October. This is the part of the three-way deal that Garcia reportedly signed for Turki. De La Hoya feels that Ryan fighting Haney again is a waste of time, but Turki clearly feels differently.
Let the games begin! 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh https://t.co/8UxSx1sWOZ
– Teofimo Lopez (@TeofimoLopez) January 16, 2025
