Ryan Garcia says fight with Manny Pacquiao not happening

Ryan Garcia has made it official: He will not fight Manny Pacquiao any time soon.

The lightweight contender, coming off a sensational knockout of Luke Campbell in January, had indicated on social media that a deal to face Pacquiao in a sanctioned bout or exhibition was all but done. However, the sides were never able to reach the finish line.

Garcia said on the All Access Elite Boxing Facebook page that he’s moving on.

“I tried my best after getting the call to fight him but didn’t happen due to some issues I didn’t expect to come up but I’m already working on the next fight. … I will always see Manny as an inspiration and someone who is a legend and that I respect. I wish the best for him in life and Boxing.”

Garcia certainly has other good options, even if they wouldn’t be quite as lucrative as a bout with Pacquiao. The popular Los Angeles fighter campaigns in a division deep in talent.

He has repeatedly called out fellow social media star Gervonta Davis but is a viable opponent for any top 135-pounder, including Devin Haney and possibly undisputed champ Teofimo Lopez in the future.