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DALLAS, TEXAS – JANUARY 02: Ryan Garcia reacts after defeating Luke Campbell during the WBC Interim Lightweight Title fight at American Airlines Center on January 02, 2021 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
via Getty
DALLAS, TEXAS – JANUARY 02: Ryan Garcia reacts after defeating Luke Campbell during the WBC Interim Lightweight Title fight at American Airlines Center on January 02, 2021 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
In the high-stakes chess game of boxing, sometimes the king is not the fighter, but the trainer whispering strategies. As Ryan Garcia readies for his comeback against Oscar Duarte, his corner has witnessed a seismic shift. Derrick James, a maestro in the art of pugilism, now leads Garcia’s charge.
James, a name whispered with reverence in gyms, has shaped champions like Errol Spence Jr. and the Charlo twins. His latest project? Anthony Joshua. But Garcia’s choice raises eyebrows. Why swap trainers on the cusp of a crucial bout? Garcia’s silent nod to James might be his boldest statement yet.
Who is training Ryan Garcia for the Oscar Duarte fight?
Transitioning into a new chapter of his career, Ryan Garcia has made a strategic move by aligning with Derrick James, a renowned figure in the boxing world. Known for his tactical brilliance, James is steering Garcia’s preparations for the highly anticipated bout against Oscar Duarte. “Oscar is a tough opponent, a knockout artist, so I have to be prepared,” Garcia stated, acknowledging the formidable challenge ahead.
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This decision, reflective of Garcia’s determination to evolve, comes after his previous partnership with Joe Goossen. With a record steeped in success, James brings a wealth of experience and a track record of molding champions, as seen in his work with Errol Spence Jr. and the Charlo twins. Garcia, embracing this change, looks to James to navigate the complexities of the ring against a skilled adversary like Duarte.
How is Derrick James related to Errol Spence Jr., Anthony Joshua, and Jermell Charlo?
Derrick James, a pivotal figure in the world of boxing, boasts a remarkable connection with several top-tier fighters. His relationship with Errol Spence Jr. is particularly notable, having guided Spence to unified welterweight world titles. This success story reflects James’ expertise in honing a fighter’s skills to championship levels. Similarly, James has played a crucial role in the careers of the Charlo twins, particularly Jermell, leading him to undisputed light-middleweight glory. These achievements underscore his ability to craft distinct strategies tailored to each boxer’s strengths.
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Recently, Anthony Joshua, following a setback against Oleksandr Usyk, sought James’ wisdom. “AJ’s his own man,” promoter Eddie Hearn remarked, highlighting Joshua’s decision to train with James as a strategic move to rejuvenate his career. This selection by Joshua, a boxer of international acclaim, further cements James’ status as a mastermind in the boxing community.
All you need to know about Ryan Garcia’s former trainer, Joe Goossen
Joe Goossen had a big impact on Ryan Garcia’s boxing career before he decided to change directions with Derrick James. A seasoned veteran in the boxing world, Goossen comes from a family deeply entrenched in the sport. His brother, Dan, was a notable promoter, representing legends like Floyd Mayweather and Mike Tyson. Joe Goossen himself gained prominence by training the Ruelas brothers, Rafael and Gabriel, to world championship status. His gym in California became a revered spot in boxing, attracting numerous top fighters.
“Ryan has got an aura around him right now… He’s got the aura of a winner, a star,” Goossen once remarked about Garcia, reflecting his belief in Ryan’s potential. However, following a three-fight stint, the partnership between Garcia and Goossen ended, paving the way for Garcia’s current collaboration with James.
Why did Ryan Garcia split with Joe Goossen?
The split between Ryan Garcia and his former trainer, Joe Goossen, came as a surprise to many in the boxing community. This decision followed a brief but intense period of collaboration, during which Garcia showcased impressive performances. However, underlying factors led to their parting ways. Speculations suggest that differences in training approach and fight strategy were at the core. “He’s been very focused, losing the weight in the right way, the sparring has been going great,” Goossen had commented, reflecting a seemingly positive trajectory.
Yet, the dynamics within the camp appeared to shift, particularly after Garcia’s fight against Gervonta Davis. Observers noted a possible disconnect between Garcia’s in-ring actions and Goossen’s instructions, hinting at differing visions for Garcia’s fighting style and preparation. This divergence, coupled with Garcia’s own evolving perspective on his career path, culminated in the decision to seek new guidance under Derrick James. Thus, the split, while unexpected, marks a strategic step by Garcia in pursuit of aligning his training with his ambitions in the ring.
As we eagerly anticipate the outcome, one question lingers in the minds of boxing enthusiasts: Will this trainer switch be the key to Garcia achieving new heights in his career, or will it be a missed step in his quest for boxing supremacy? Only time, and the ring, will tell.
Watch this story: Ryan Garcia vs. Oscar Duarte: Date, Time, Venue, Tickets, and Livestream
