by the El Reportero wire servicess
Ryan García wants Fighter of the Year honors, and three victories in ten months could strengthen his case. But his choice of December opponent may determine how seriously that ambition is taken.
Garcií has expressed interest in fighting again before year’s end, with another major appearance planned for May.
“I am on the hunt. December, I am throwing hands. Then right to May,” García said.
Following victories over Mario Barrios and Conor Benn, García faces two potential opponents: Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and Angel Fierro. Each presents a different challenge.
Cruz, known for his relentless pressure and aggressive body punching, would force García into a demanding contest. His compact fighting style allows him to slip inside taller opponents’ punches and attack their ribs.
Garcia possesses exceptional hand speed and a devastating left hook, weapons capable of stopping Cruz’s advances. However, his vulnerability to body punches remains a concern. Gervonta Davis defeated García with a body shot, and Cruz would undoubtedly attempt to exploit similar openings.
Fierro represents a more familiar opponent. A former Garcia sparring partner who suffered a knockout loss to Oscar Duarte, Fierro would provide another opportunity for García to remain active without necessarily facing the same physical demands.
However, Cruz presents complications of his own. Primarily competing at junior welterweight, he would potentially move up to Garcia’s 147-pound division. Such a weight difference could raise questions about the significance of Garcia’s victory.
There is also the physical toll. An exhausting encounter with Cruz could jeopardize García’s recovery and preparation for his anticipated May appearance. Fierro might represent a less disruptive business decision.
Nevertheless, fighting Cruz would provide García with an opportunity to demonstrate his ability against sustained pressure and aggressive body punching.
García’s ambition ultimately depends on more than accumulating victories. The quality of his opposition will influence how boxing observers evaluate his accomplishments.
A December victory over Fierro would add another win to García’s record. A competitive encounter with Cruz, particularly one ending in García’s favor, would provide additional evidence for those considering his Fighter of the Year candidacy.
