Shockwaves in Boxing World as Ryan Garcia Suffers Stunning Defeat to Rolly Romero — Pros React!

The boxing world was left in disbelief Saturday night as Ryan Garcia, one of the sport’s brightest young stars, suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of Rolly Romero in what many are already calling the biggest upset of 2025.

Garcia, known for his speed, flashy combinations, and massive social media following, entered the fight with high expectations. A victory over Romero was supposed to set the stage for a lucrative rematch with Devin Haney — a fight fans and pundits had eagerly anticipated.

But instead, the unthinkable happened.

From the opening bell, Romero came out aggressive, cutting off the ring and landing awkward, powerful shots that visibly shook Garcia. Although Garcia had moments of brilliance in the early rounds, including a sharp counter left in the second, it was clear that Romero’s awkward pressure and power were bothering him.

By Round 5, the momentum had shifted completely. Garcia looked tentative, his timing off, and his defense leaking. Then came the shocking finish: Romero caught Garcia clean with a thunderous right hand that sent “King Ry” crashing to the canvas. Though he beat the count, the referee waved it off moments later as Garcia stumbled on unsteady legs.

The result? A technical knockout victory for Romero — and a brutal reality check for Ryan Garcia.

Almost instantly, the boxing world exploded with reactions from fellow fighters, analysts, and legends of the sport.

Gervonta Davis, who previously knocked Garcia out in 2023, posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“Told y’all. He ain’t built for this level. It’s different when you’re in there with a real one.”

Devin Haney, who was lined up for a big-money rematch with Garcia later this year, seemed both disappointed and smug in his reaction:

“There goes the payday. Should’ve stayed focused, Ryan. All that talk for nothing.”

Shakur Stevenson, another rising star in the division, added:

“This is what happens when you don’t respect your opponents or the sport. Gotta stay disciplined.”

Even former champions chimed in. Andre Ward said during the post-fight analysis:

“Ryan has all the talent in the world, but talent alone isn’t enough at the elite level. You need focus, consistency, and mental toughness. Romero may be unorthodox, but he came to win — and he did.”

Oscar De La Hoya, Garcia’s promoter, expressed disappointment but urged fans not to give up on the 25-year-old fighter:

“He’ll be back. Ryan is a special fighter, but tonight was Rolly’s night. That’s boxing — the unexpected always finds a way.”

Meanwhile, Rolly Romero celebrated the biggest win of his career with raw emotion. “They said I was a joke,” Romero shouted in the ring. “Well, the joke’s on them now. I just knocked out the golden boy of boxing.”

Fans online were split — some criticized Garcia’s flashy lifestyle and perceived lack of focus, while others defended him, reminding everyone that losses are part of boxing.

Garcia, to his credit, addressed the media after the fight. “No excuses,” he said. “Rolly caught me. I wasn’t good enough tonight. I’ll be back — stronger and smarter.”

The loss throws a wrench into the lightweight division’s roadmap for 2025, as Garcia’s star power was a key part of many promotional plans. Now, questions swirl about his future — should he take time off, change trainers again, or even consider moving up in weight permanently?

One thing is certain: boxing is as unpredictable as ever.

And on a night when Ryan Garcia was supposed to shine, it was Rolly Romero who stole the spotlight — and perhaps changed the landscape of the division entirely.