Ryan Garcia’s autonomy over his career may not be entirely beneficial, according to Oscar De La Hoya, who suggests the young boxer had been veering off course. Garcia has effectively driven his popularity to new heights, amassing a massive social media following and performing well in most of his fights, except against Gervonta Davis. In their showdown earlier this year on April 22nd, Davis outclassed Garcia, knocking him out in the seventh round. The defeat prompted Garcia to take a hard look at himself and change his training approach, parting ways with his previous trainer and bringing Derrick James on board.
De La Hoya, who has been keeping a close eye on the development between Garcia and James, believes Garcia requires a trainer who won’t sugarcoat things. During a recent interview with Fight Hub TV, De La Hoya stated, “He needs authority. He needs military, he needs somebody that’s gonna f------ tell him what to do and not be afraid.”
Derrick James, honored as the 2022 BWAA Trainer of the Year, is not one to hold back his words. His impressive roster includes notable names like unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr., undisputed 154-pound titlist Jermell Charlo, high-ranking lightweight contender Frank Martin, and former unified heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua. Garcia’s previous training relationship was more of a “partnership,” according to Joe Goossen, Garcia’s former trainer. However, with James now in the driver’s seat, Garcia seems to be embracing his disciplined approach.
According to De La Hoya, Garcia, who he describes as a “sponge,” is not only in need of James’ straightforward approach but also appreciates it. “I think Ryan...wants to feel like somebody is teaching him. I’m glad that he has Derrick as a trainer,” added De La Hoya.
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