Ryan Garcia rebounded from his earlier knockout loss to Gervonta Davis this year, showcasing a revitalized future in the sport with an eighth-round knockout against Oscar Duarte at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. The official time of the victory was recorded at 2:51.
Under the guidance of a new trainer and in a different weight class, Garcia demonstrated significant improvement, dispelling any notions of being a damaged fighter. Throughout the bout, he displayed refined boxing skills and utilized his quick hands to secure a decisive victory.
While Garcia still exhibited defensive vulnerabilities, notably turning his back to Duarte, who capitalized on applying pressure, “KingRy” showcased a crisp jab, a powerful uppercut, and strategic movement advised by his new trainer. These tactics thwarted Duarte’s attempts to establish a foothold and unleash potent shots.
Garcia, with a record of 24-1 and 20 KOs, commenced the fight by employing a sharp jab and skillfully evading Duarte’s advances. Although Duarte aimed to assert dominance by forcing his way inside, Garcia maintained a comfortable lead in the initial rounds. However, by the fourth round, Duarte managed to breach Garcia’s defenses, targeting various parts of his body.
Despite Duarte gaining momentum in the middle rounds, Garcia’s footwork in the seventh round disrupted his opponent’s rhythm, much to the chagrin of the crowd. This strategic movement ultimately set the stage for the finishing sequence in the eighth round.
Sensing Duarte’s impatience, Garcia capitalized on an opening, landing a blistering left hook that visibly rattled his opponent. Seizing the opportunity, Garcia unleashed a powerful combination that sent Duarte to the canvas. While the referee administered the count, Duarte, disoriented, rose too late, securing Garcia’s knockout victory.
This triumphant win marks Garcia’s return to the winner’s circle, sending a clear message to the division and reaffirming his status as one of boxing’s prominent stars.
