Boxing Stars Set for Tripleheader in Times Square Showdown

NEW YORK — Three of boxing’s top fighters, Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, and Teofimo Lopez Jr., officially made weight Thursday ahead of their highly anticipated tripleheader at Times Square on Friday night.

Garcia, making his return to the ring after a year-long suspension, weighed in at 146.8 pounds for his welterweight fight against Rolando “Rolly” Romero, who weighed 146.6 pounds. The fight is set for a contracted limit of 147 pounds. Garcia last fought in April 2024 against Haney, a bout that ended in controversy after being ruled a no contest due to Garcia testing positive for a banned substance.

“This is the weight class I belong in, and I’m excited to start my journey at 147,” Garcia said. “I’m focused on Rolly tomorrow. Without beating Rolly, we can’t have the rematch with Haney.”

Haney also made weight for his catchweight bout against José Ramirez, weighing in at 143 pounds while Ramirez came in at 143.8 pounds, with the contracted limit being 144 pounds. Haney has not fought since the controversial match with Garcia.

“This is gonna be the best performance you’ve ever seen from me,” Haney stated. “It all starts with José, and once I get past José, I’m gonna get to Ryan.”

Teofimo Lopez, who will be defending his WBO junior welterweight title, weighed in at 139.6 pounds for his match against Arnold Barboza Jr. Barboza weighed 139.8 pounds. The two fighters are set to open the night’s events.

Lopez expressed his eagerness, saying, “I want to fight. I’m ready. I’m tired of everybody bullying me. No more.”

The event marks a historic moment as it will be the first boxing event held in New York City’s Times Square. A temporary ring is being constructed at the tourist hotspot, surrounded by LED billboards, aiming to provide a unique atmosphere for both fighters and fans.

“This is going to be very difficult for every single fighter,” said promoter Oscar De La Hoya, acknowledging the distractions present in such a public venue. “There will be people everywhere, distractions everywhere.”

As the boxers step into the ring, they are acutely aware that a win is pivotal for their careers, potentially leading to bigger fights and opportunities.

“I’m still going to bring that speed, that power. It’s just what I do,” Garcia added, highlighting his readiness to reclaim his spot in the sport.

As the night of boxing unfolds, excitement is palpable among fans and the fighters, all set to showcase their skills on a stage unlike any other.