Since his surprising loss to Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, Ryan Garcia has largely stayed out of the spotlight. In case you need a refresher—heading into the bout, the Victorville native was the favorite to defeat Romero, who had already suffered multiple losses by May earlier this year. But on fight night, Romero defied expectations and secured a unanimous decision victory, stunning fans and pundits alike. Now, months later, it seems the defeat is still haunting Garcia—and Joe Rogan is the reason why.
Rogan and Garcia share a bit of history. After Garcia tested positive for Ostarine last year, Rogan defended him publicly. Still, the 26-year-old wasn’t entirely happy with the UFC commentator. Around that time, Garcia complained on X about not being invited to Rogan’s podcast, claiming Rogan was scared to have him on. He even commented on a video of Rogan practicing kicks, writing, “I would KO you so quick. But nice kicks fam. I’ll have mercy if you let me on the show.” Nearly a year has passed since then, and Rogan is taking swipes at Garcia for the Romero loss.
A couple of weeks ago, Rogan invited legendary commentator Jim Lampley to his podcast, where the duo discussed His Excellency Turki Alalshikh’s involvement in boxing. Rogan highlighted that people speculate because the Oilman is paying boxers so much that they are afraid to lose. That’s when Lampley brings up the Garcia fight, praising Romero for the strategy he brought to the fight, adding, “He did a good job of that.”
Credits: IMAGO
Rogan quickly jumped in and said, “He also landed that left hook of his own. Rocked him and dropped him. And I think that changed the entire [fight].” For context, Garcia is known for his left hooks, but it was Romero who dropped Garcia in the second round with a left hook. Regardless, Lampley agreed, stating, “Yes, mentally changed the fight. Garcia’s in there trying to land his left hook, and all of a sudden, he gets dropped by one. That’s that’s got to affect [you] mentality.”
While Rogan is taking shots at Garcia, someone else was planning an intervention for the Victorville native.
Amir Khan wants to help Ryan Garcia
After the Rolly Romero loss and a string of troubling off-ring incidents, Amir Khan is offering support to Ryan Garcia. He thinks the 26-year-old is heading down a dangerous path, and wants to intervene as a friend. “Ryan needs someone to sit down and talk to him as a friend and as someone that cares for him,” Khan told The Ring.
Credits: Imago
“A lot of people are going to be around Ryan, but they’re not going to care for him… they’re all going to be there for their own little two-pence fame,” he added. Khan believes Garcia, who underwent hand surgery, faced a failed drug test and arrest, must have a complete reset. “He needs to go back to that level, back to basics, back to the hard work, dedication, and focus,” Khan said.
Ryan Garcia’s one loss has forced different responses from people. While some take swipes at him, others extend a helping hand. But what about Garcia? What’s he up to? What’s his next step? No one quite knows. What do you think he should do next?
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