The boxing world was buzzing in anticipation for Ryan Garcia's much-heralded return to the ring. Fans across the globe wanted to know: Who won the Ryan Garcia fight? The answer surprised many as Rolando "Rolly" Romero pulled off a stunning upset in Times Square, New York City, on May 2, 2025.

Who Won the Ryan Garcia Fight?

Entering the bout as a heavy favorite, Ryan Garcia was expected to add another win to his impressive record. However, Rolando Romero had other plans. The judges scored the fight 115-112, 115-112, and 118-109, all in favor of Romero. This unanimous decision marked a major career milestone for Romero, who entered the fight as a significant underdog.

Romero’s victory did not come by accident. He knocked Garcia down early in the second round with a crisp left hook. From then on, he controlled the pace, fighting with patience and composure. Garcia, returning after a year-long suspension, struggled to find his rhythm and landed only 54 punches over 12 rounds—a career low for him.

For an in-depth round-by-round review and official scorecards, check out USA Today’s live coverage.

Key Highlights from Garcia vs. Romero

• Early Knockdown: Romero knocked Garcia down in round two, swinging the momentum in his favor.
• Low Punch Output: Both fighters were unusually hesitant, combining for one of the lowest total punch counts in recent history.
• Romero’s Discipline: Romero displayed strategic patience and neutralized Garcia’s trademark left hook.
• Garcia’s Return: After a year-long suspension for a failed drug test, Garcia admitted he was not at his best, saying, “I just think that whole year off took a lot off my body, physically and mentally.”

For additional analysis and punch stats, you can visit ESPN’s detailed breakdown.

Implications for Garcia and Romero

Garcia’s unexpected defeat casts serious doubt on his immediate future and the planned rematch with Devin Haney. Originally, Garcia and Haney were expected to meet again later this year. After Romero’s win, those plans may need to change, as both boxers consider their next steps.

Romero, who improved his record to 17-2, now holds the WBA’s secondary welterweight title. His composed performance on a massive stage has placed him firmly in the spotlight. For a closer look at how Romero achieved this landmark win, read The Guardian’s event recap.

The Night in Times Square: More Than a Fight

The entire event was unique, staged outdoors in the heart of Times Square and funded by Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. Fighters arrived in style—Garcia in a Batmobile, and Romero exuding confidence. The setting captured the imagination of both boxing fans and passersby, making it a historic night.

The fight also featured other notable bouts, including Devin Haney’s unanimous decision win over Jose Ramirez and Teofimo Lopez’s dominant performance against Arnold Barboza Jr.

What Comes Next?

With Rolando Romero’s upset victory, new questions loom. Will a Garcia-Haney rematch happen, or will Romero now get his shot at a higher-profile opponent? For boxing fans, one thing is certain: major shakeups are ahead in the welterweight division.

If you’re wondering who won the Ryan Garcia fight and what it means for the sport, the answer is clear—Rolando Romero took the win and brought a new wave of intrigue to boxing’s landscape.

Stay tuned for updates as these fighters chart their next paths in the ring. If you want to explore more about the build-up and aftermath, dive into the detailed coverage from The Guardian.