The Fatal Fury Upset: 5 Shocking Details From Ryan Garcia Vs. Rolly Romero And The Rematch Talks

The boxing world was turned on its head in May 2025 when Rolando 'Rolly' Romero delivered a seismic upset, defeating the heavily-favored Ryan Garcia by unanimous decision in a welterweight clash. This unexpected result, which took place in the surreal outdoor setting of Times Square, New York, has immediately become one of the most talked-about fights of the year, not just for the outcome but for the turbulent career paths of both men leading up to and following the event.

As of this current date in December 2025, the conversation has already pivoted to a highly-anticipated second chapter. Negotiations are reportedly underway for a potential Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero II rematch, which could take place as soon as December 2025, though Garcia's promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, has hinted at seeking a "bigger fight" next.

Fighter Profiles: Ryan Garcia and Rolando 'Rolly' Romero

The first clash between Garcia and Romero was a high-stakes affair, contested for the WBA 'regular' welterweight title. Both men bring unique styles, massive social media followings, and a history of controversy to the ring. Understanding their backgrounds is crucial to appreciating the magnitude of the upset.

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Ryan "King Ry" Garcia

• Country: United States
• Born: August 8, 1998 (Age 27)
• Alias: King Ry, The Flash
• Height: 5' 8½"
• Stance: Orthodox
• Professional Record: 24 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws (20 KOs)
• KO Percentage: 76.92%
• Notable Fights: Devin Haney (No-Contest), Gervonta "Tank" Davis (Loss)
• Context: Garcia entered the Romero fight following a highly publicized no-contest ruling from his previous bout, adding immense pressure to his performance in Times Square.

Rolando "Rolly" Romero

• Country: United States
• Born: October 14, 1995 (Age 30)
• Alias: Rolly
• Height: 5'8"
• Stance: Orthodox
• Professional Record: 17 Wins, 2 Losses, 0 Draws (13 KOs)
• KO Percentage: 81.25%
• Notable Fights: Ismael Barroso (Win), Gervonta "Tank" Davis (Loss)
• Context: Romero, a former WBA Super Lightweight champion, entered the Garcia bout as a significant underdog but delivered the biggest win of his career, cementing his status in the welterweight division.

The May 2025 Upset: Fatal Fury in Times Square

The initial bout, promoted by Turki Al-Sheikh and billed as "Fatal Fury in Times Square," was an event shrouded in a unique, almost surreal atmosphere. The fight itself was a tactical and, at times, slow-paced affair that defied the expected explosive action from two power-punchers.

The Shocking Scorecards

Romero's victory was decisive, coming via unanimous decision. The official scorecards read 115-112, 115-112, and a surprisingly wide 118-109, all in favor of 'Rolly.' The 118-109 card suggested a near-shutout, a score that shocked many given the competitive nature of some rounds. This result immediately sparked debate among boxing analysts and fans over Garcia’s performance and Romero’s surprising ring IQ.

The Knockdown and Garcia's Struggles

A key moment in the fight was a knockdown scored by Romero, which significantly swayed the momentum and the judges' perception of the contest. Throughout the fight, Garcia appeared hesitant and unable to unleash his signature speed and power. Critics noted that Garcia seemed "clamped up" and fought "scared," a performance that was inconsistent with his previous aggressive style. Romero, known for his awkward style and power, effectively neutralized Garcia's strengths, landing cleaner shots and controlling the distance.

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The Welterweight Title and Division Shift

The bout was contested at the 147-pound welterweight limit, a division where both fighters are relatively new. Romero’s victory not only earned him the WBA 'regular' title but also solidified his position as a legitimate player in a stacked weight class. For Garcia, the loss marked his second professional defeat, following his highly-publicized loss to Gervonta Davis, and raised serious questions about his future at the elite level of boxing.

The Rematch: Why Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero II is Inevitable

Despite the decisive nature of the first fight, the demand for a rematch is high, driven by both the financial incentive and the narrative of redemption. The ongoing negotiations for a second fight in December 2025 highlight the immediate interest from promoters and fans alike.

The Redemption Narrative for King Ry

For Ryan Garcia, a rematch is a critical opportunity for redemption. His performance in the first fight was widely criticized, with some suggesting he fought not to lose rather than to win. A decisive victory over Romero would erase the memory of the upset, regain his confidence, and prove that his previous struggles were an anomaly. It is a loss that Garcia "needs bad," even more so than a rematch with Devin Haney.

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The Business of Boxing and Welterweight Hierarchy

While Oscar De La Hoya is reportedly looking for a "bigger fight" for Garcia, the reality is that the Romero rematch remains a massive commercial draw. The first fight generated significant buzz, and a second bout, fueled by the controversy and the need for Garcia to avenge his loss, is a guaranteed Pay-Per-View success.

Furthermore, the outcome of the rematch has significant implications for the welterweight division. Rolly Romero, now a WBA champion, is a target for other top fighters, including potential matchups with Manny Pacquiao or a unification bout. A Garcia win would thrust him back into the championship picture, while a Romero victory would cement his reign and elevate his superstar status.

Potential Timeline and Location

Current reports suggest that the second fight is being targeted for late 2025, specifically December. While the first bout was a unique outdoor event in Times Square, a potential rematch would likely move to a major indoor arena in a boxing hub like Las Vegas or New York, maximizing revenue and providing a more traditional setting for the high-stakes confrontation. The involvement of major players like Turki Al-Sheikh and the WBA ensures that any announcement will be a global event.

The story of Ryan Garcia vs. Rolly Romero is far from over. The first fight was a shocking chapter, but the proposed rematch is the ultimate test of character for Garcia and a chance for Romero to prove his upset victory was not a fluke. All eyes are on the negotiating tables for the official announcement of the next installment in this unexpected, yet compelling, boxing rivalry.