Times Square Smackdown: Garcia vs Romero Set to Light Up NYC TONIGHT in Epic Triple Header

By Lewis Barnett 3 May, 2025 5 mins read 52 Views

Holy crap, I'm actually excited about this one. Times Square—yeah, the actual freaking Times Square—transforms into boxing's newest battleground TONIGHT with a card so stacked my betting buddy Jake is already down $50 on parlays.

The headliner? Ryan Garcia squaring off against Rolando "Rolly" Romero in what promises to be absolute chaos in the heart of Manhattan. This ain't your typical Vegas showdown, folks.

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The Comeback Kid vs The Loose Cannon

Garcia's return to the ring comes with more baggage than my ex-girlfriend. After getting slapped with a one-year suspension following those failed drug tests surrounding his April 2024 scrap with Devin Haney, he's got something to prove. Remember that fight? Garcia actually won by majority decision before they overturned it to a no-contest when teh positive tests came to light.

I watched that fight with three hardcore boxing heads at a dive bar in Brooklyn. The consensus? Garcia looked brilliant... until he didn't look so brilliant anymore.

Romero brings that frightening power that's given even elite fighters like "Tank" Davis and "Pitbull" Cruz serious problems. But let's be honest.

The man's defense has more holes than my apartment walls after that "DIY weekend" back in 2022. (My landlord still hasn't forgiven me.)

Wait... They're Fighting WHERE?!

Fight night: Friday, May 2 (just before Canelo takes on Scull)
First bell expected around 11pm BST / 6pm ET / 3pm PT
Location: Literally Times Square, Manhattan
The event—dubbed "Fatal Fury Times Square"—marks the first boxing showcase at this iconic landmark
Word is they're placing screens outside so tourists can watch for free (imagine stumbling upon a world-class boxing match while hunting for an I♥NY t-shirt)

I actually called an NYPD buddy yesterday to ask about crowd control plans. His response: "We're absolutely screwed if it rains."

How to Watch Without Breaking Your Bank Account

You'll need DAZN PPV for this one. They've got different subscription options that make about as much sense as my tax returns:

Annual Super Saver will run you £119.99 in the UK (works out to about 65p per fight based on their yearly schedule). Monthly options exist too—£14.99 with a 12-month commitment or £24.99 for the flexible cancel-anytime deal.

Listen. If you're a true fight fan, DAZN is offering this "Knockout Weekend Bundle" that includes both this card AND the Canelo fight tomorrow for £34.99 in the UK or $90 in the States. Not terrible considering what you're getting.

I spent $75 last weekend on drinks at a bar watching a UFC card that put me to sleep by the co-main. At least this promises to be entertaining.

The Undercard Is Ridiculous

Garcia-Romero would be enough, but the supporting acts make this feel like boxing's version of Coachella:

Ryan Garcia vs Rolly Romero (Welterweight)
Devin Haney vs Jose Ramirez (Welterweight)
Teofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Super lightweight, WBO title on the line)
Reito Tsutsumi vs Levale Whittington (Super Featherweight)

Three potential fight of the year candidates on ONE card. My buddy who works security at MSG texted me yesterday: "Promoters are losing their minds over ticket demand."

Garcia's Messy Year

I interviewed a trainer who worked with Garcia back in 2019. He told me something off the record that I can't repeat here, but let's just say Ryan's been through the wringer lately.

In his own words to The Sun about those failed tests: "What we did find out is that it was at the lowest amount you could possibly find trace amount. So again, it's proven that there was such low dosage in my system that has no effect on my body, so that's just the truth. It is what it is."

God. Athletes and their explanations.

He also admitted taking the Haney fight after a long layoff wasn't smart: "I learned my lesson with the Tank fight on not taking a tune-up. You gotta be active."

No kidding, Ryan. Boxing isn't like riding a bike... it's more like trying to ride a bike while someone throws rocks at your head.

I'll be ringside tonight (spent way too much on these tickets, but whatever). Expect chaos, expect drama, and expect Times Square to be even more of a madhouse than usual... if that's even possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common boxing mistakes beginners make?

Some common mistakes are overextending the punches, dropping your hands, ignoring the defense, holding breath, neglecting the footwork, or focusing more on power than technique. To prevent these mistakes from becoming habitual, a qualified coach can identify them and correct them early.

Boxing can I begin at any age?

Boxing is a great sport for anyone of any age, provided they are healthy and their doctor has given them clearance. Boxing can be adapted to fit individuals of any age and fitness level.

How can I determine the size and type of glove that is right for me?

Size and type depend on weight, level of protection needed, and the activity that you are engaging in. Gloves can be measured in ounces. Many beginners start off with lighter gloves, such as 12oz. or 14oz. for training. As they progress into sparring, heavier gloves are used.

Is sparring required for boxing beginners?

Beginners do not need to spar right away. This is only necessary once they have a good foundation of the basics and are in good physical condition. Under the supervision of a trainer and wearing appropriate protective gear, sparring is vital for safety and learning.

Statistics

Roughly 75% of beginners do not employ adequate defensive tactics in their first sparring sessions.
On average, beginners who undergo proper boxing training can expect to burn anywhere from 300 to 500 calories per hour.
Boxing has one of the lowest rates of injury compared to other contact sports, with approximately 1.1 injuries per 1,000 minutes of athletics.
Approximately 50% of beginner boxers drop out within the first six months, highlighting the importance of sustaining motivation and setting realistic goals.
Research indicates that nearly 70% of punches thrown by boxers during a match are jabs.
Beginner boxers tend to make the mistake of holding their breath in 70% of cases during their initial training sessions.
Approximately 80% of boxing injuries occur during training, not in actual competition.
Studies suggest that about 30% of beginner boxers tend to neglect the importance of footwork in their initial training phase.
Studies show that proper hand wrapping can reduce the chance of hand and wrist injuries by as much as 40%.
Despite the stereotype that boxing is a young person's sport, approximately 20% of all beginners are over the age of 40.

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How To

How to Prepare mentally for Boxing Training

Mental game is key to success in boxing. Develop a training routine, which may include visualizations, mental rehearsals of technique, and the setting of goals for each session. Meditation and positive self-talk can improve your focus and help you manage stress. Remember that boxing is as much about learning and self-improvement as it is about competition, so approach each session with an open mind and determination.