Ryan Garcia is ready to return to action after more than a year away, to face Emmanuel Tagoe.
The April 9 match-up will be shown live on DAZN, and marks Garcia’s comeback after problems with mental health and injury. However, he now seems more than ready to get back to action.
Garcia had been put forward for title challenges before his absence, and instead faces 33-year-old Tagoe, a one-time IBO lightweight champion.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Garcia said: “I’m very excited, it’s been a long time. Tagoe is a legitimate contender, I have nothing but respect for him. He has a big opportunity here, he’s been looking for a tough fight, a fight that will make or break him; and I am looking forward to a dog fight if it happens to be one.
“I am definitely not looking past him, whether people think he is a good contender or not, and I respect him and I know this will be a good fight.
“I have been boxing my whole life. I know what it takes. I know the discipline you need, the sacrifices you have to make. What makes me feel confident is all the experience I have in the ring; over 200 amateur fights, 21 professional, been in some top training camps. I feel very comfortable and confident. I know whomever is in front of me, it will not be easy, that’s for sure. If it’s a quick or a long fight, I am ready for whatever.”
Tagoe meanwhile is looking to spring a surprise.
“I know people don’t know me, but after this fight, people are going to ask, who is this guy?” he said.
“I know Ryan Garcia, I respect him a lot as a good boxer but he is not my style.”