Ryan Garcia only wanted the biggest names in boxing following his January victory over Britain’s Luke Campbell.
The highly-rated Californian, a key component in the fascinating mix at 135lbs that also includes Gervonta Davis, Vasyl Lomachenko, Devin Haney, and Gervonta Davis, set his sights on one of the sport’s most popular profiles in Manny Pacquiao, but it appears his dream fight must wait a little longer.
From lightweight to 147lbs, Pacquiao’s name is often referenced when fighters want to combine a huge challenge with a lucrative payday and that was part of the appeal to Garcia. For now, it looks like Oscar De La Hoya’s new 'Golden Boy' will have to seek an alternative challenge.
Posting on Facebook via All Access Elite Boxing, Garcia wrote, “To all my fans and supporters, my fight with Manny Pacquiao is not happening right now.
“I tried my best after getting the call to fight him but didn’t happen due to some issues I didn’t expect to come up but I’m already working on the next fight.”
Garcia added, “I will always see Manny as an inspiration and someone who is a legend and that I respect. I wish the best for him in life and Boxing.”
Despite Garcia’s boxing bucket list opponent appearing to be a non starter, the popular 22 year-old who boasts over eight million Instagram followers is still expected to return to the ring soon. No opponent has been confirmed but Garcia will be hopeful of building on what has been a solid start to 2021 for him.