Golden Boy Promotions has finalized plans for a showdown between Ryan Garcia and Oscar Duarte, set to take place on December 2 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. This bout will be Garcia’s comeback fight since his only career loss, amidst ongoing legal disputes between him and Golden Boy. Duarte was initially considered for a November 18 fight date.
Garcia’s last appearance was a knockout defeat to Gervonta “Tank” Davis in April 2023, a bout that garnered significant attention, selling 1.2 million PPV units and generating approximately $22.8 million in ticket sales. The event not only solidified Davis as a top draw in boxing but also highlighted Garcia’s marketability. However, the fight also marked the beginning of visible tensions between Garcia and Golden Boy Promotions. The discord between Garcia and promoter Oscar De La Hoya became public, leading to an ongoing lawsuit.
Previously a top contender in the lightweight division, Garcia’s recent fights have been above the lightweight limit. He has now teamed up with 2022’s Trainer of the Year, Derrick James, and will be training in Las Vegas for his upcoming bout. On the other hand, Duarte, primarily a lightweight fighter, will be stepping up in weight for this match, coming off a streak of eleven consecutive wins.
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