Golden Boy promoter Oscar De La Hoya has dismissed rumors of a fight between Ryan Garcia and Vergil Ortiz Jr., calling the reports a misunderstanding. The statement clarifies the path for the new WBC welterweight champion, effectively removing one potential high-profile opponent from consideration.
Recent reports suggested that Ortiz, an undefeated super-welterweight contender, had emerged as a possible next opponent for Garcia. However, a fight between the two Golden Boy stablemates was always complicated. Ortiz has been involved in a legal dispute with the promotional company, clouding his immediate future in the ring. He has not competed since a second-round finish over Erickson Lubin last November. De La Hoya addressed the speculation directly, separating the two fighters’ immediate plans.
In an attempt to clarify the situation, De La Hoya stated plainly that the two are not on a collision course. “That’s just a misunderstanding. Vergil has his career; Ryan has his career. [They’re on] different paths.” This comment underscores the logistical and legal hurdles that make the matchup currently unworkable, despite both men being under the same promotional banner. De La Hoya did add that he expects Ortiz to return to action later this year, suggesting a potential settlement may be a priority.
The removal of Ortiz from the running shifts focus squarely onto other contenders for Garcia’s first title defense. Conor Benn remains the WBC mandatory challenger at 147 pounds. Benn most recently defeated Ryan’s brother, Sean Garcia, in a 150-pound catchweight bout in April, creating a clear narrative for a title fight. Although he has not made the welterweight limit since 2022, his mandatory status makes him the most logical and likely opponent for the new champion.
