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

Teofimo Lopez has hinted to X that he is Ryan Garcia’s next opponent for his fight in May.

Turki Al-Sheikh took to social media today to post a picture of Ryan (24-1, 20 KO) signing the contract, saying, “The deal is done. The opponent is ready.” Teofimo responded to the post, stating: “Let the games begin.”

Times Square Tune-up

WBO light heavyweight champion Teofimo would be Garcia’s May opponent for the rumored matchup in Times Square, New York. Haney would also be on the card. One option being considered for his warm-up bout is former 140lb unified champion Jose Ramirez.

Fighting Theo is a crazy move on Ryan’s part because he is a better fighter than Hani and, because of his power, much more dangerous. Lopez only lost once to George Kamboss Jr. and had no chin issues. You’d have to consider Teofim a far more serious test for Garcia than Hani.

Is this a mistake for Garcia?

It wouldn’t be surprising if Ryan loses to Lopez, as he’s not the type of opponent he can afford to land a lot of punches with or fight like he did in his recent win over Hany on April 20th.

Teofimo was in London last Saturday for the Ring Awards, looking like one of the movie’s sunglass-wearing nocturnal mutants, ‘Omega Man.’ He looked creepy and out of place at the awards show. Theo probably thought he looked cool, but he looked like a plague mutant.

Garcia’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, already said last Saturday that Teofimo (21-1, 13 KOs) wants Ryan next, not Devin Haynie. Ryan will still fight Devin in a rematch in October. It is part of the three-match deal Garcia reportedly signed for the Turks. De La Hoya thinks Ryan fighting Hani again is a waste of time, but Turki clearly feels differently.

Let the games begin! 🤝 @Turki_alalshikh https://t.co/8UkSk1sVOZ

— Teofimo Lopez (@TeofimoLopez) January 16, 2025