LAS VEGAS — WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia is in advanced negotiations for a potential unification showdown against WBA titleholder Teofimo Lopez. Reports indicate the two camps are targeting a fight date in the first quarter of 2027, which would mark a significant step forward following a period of public verbal exchanges between the fighters.
Garcia, who successfully defended his WBC title with a second-round knockout of Conor Benn at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas this past September, has been seeking a quick return to the ring. While names such as Isaac Cruz and Floyd Mayweather were previously discussed as potential opponents, the unification bout with Lopez has emerged as the primary objective.
Teofimo Lopez secured the WBA welterweight title in August following a points victory over Rolly Romero. Although the WBA has ordered a mandatory defence against Jack Catterall, reports suggest that Lopez’s team is actively appealing the decision. Should the sanctioning body insist on the Catterall fixture, it is understood that Lopez may choose to vacate his belt to ensure the high-profile clash with Garcia proceeds as planned.
“Ryan Garcia and Teofimo Lopez are now in advanced talks to fight in the first quarter of 2027, sources tell Ring Magazine. Expect this welterweight title fight to happen next. And it’s a big one,” reported journalist Mike Coppinger.