It’s a disastrous return to action for Garcia, who hadn’t fought since earning a suspension following his overturned bout with Haney in April 2024, having failed the post-fight drug test. For Romero, it’s a massive burst of new life for a career that seemed it had reached its peak.

After upsetting Garcia by unanimous decision to win the vacant WBA (Regular) welterweight title on Friday night, Romero told reporters he feels Garcia vs. Haney II should still happen, saying: "I ain't even thinking about what's next.