Ryan Garcia is no stranger to making bold moves, but his decision to fight Rukiya Anpo has raised eyebrows across the boxing world. Is this a calculated risk that could reignite his career, or another distraction that takes him further away from championship contention?
A Surprising Matchup
Garcia’s career has been defined by both his undeniable talent and his unpredictable decisions outside the ring. While he has faced some of the biggest names in boxing, his next opponent, Rukiya Anpo, comes from the world of kickboxing. The question many are asking is whether Anpo presents a legitimate challenge or if this is simply another spectacle-driven fight with limited value for Garcia’s career.
Anpo is an accomplished kickboxer, but transitioning to boxing at an elite level is a difficult task. Fighters from other combat sports have attempted this before, with mixed results. When Conor McGregor stepped into the ring with Floyd Mayweather in 2017, his striking skills were evident, but the technical differences between boxing and MMA proved too great. Anpo may face a similar challenge when he squares off against a boxer as fast and skilled as Garcia.
Read more about kickboxers transitioning into boxing on The Ring Magazine
What’s at Stake for Garcia?
For Garcia, this fight represents more than just another payday. After recent struggles both inside and outside the ring, he needs a strong performance to remind the boxing world why he was once considered a future champion. Critics argue that facing an opponent without professional boxing experience does little to advance his standing in the division, while supporters believe it could be an opportunity to build momentum before returning to top-tier competition.
A dominant win would silence some of his doubters, but anything less could be disastrous. If Garcia struggles against Anpo, it will fuel the narrative that he is more focused on social media antics and high-profile but low-risk fights than on truly competing at the highest level.
Learn more about Garcia’s current ranking and future prospects on BoxingScene
Is This a Smart Move or a Step Backward?
The boxing world remains divided on whether this fight benefits Garcia in the long run. Some view it as an unnecessary risk that offers little reward, while others see it as an opportunity for him to stay active and generate interest. The reality is that Garcia’s future depends on what he does after this fight.
If he wins convincingly and immediately seeks out top contenders, this bout could be just a footnote in his career. However, if he continues to take unconventional fights rather than facing the best in his division, he risks becoming more of an entertainer than a serious title contender.
Follow the latest updates on Garcia’s future opponents on ESPN Boxing
What Do You Think?
Does this fight make sense for Ryan Garcia, or is it another step in the wrong direction? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s discuss. Do you agree with my take, or do you see this fight as a smart move?
For more analysis, fight previews, and in-depth discussions, visit CMBoxing.co.uk and stay updated on the latest in boxing.