Liam Paro is offering Ryan Garcia a unification fight that could wreck a bigger payday against Teofimo Lopez in May 2027. Like Isaac Cruz, Paro presents an uncomfortable choice for Ryan: a credible opponent who could spoil the plans before the lucrative fight arrives.
The IBF welterweight champion fired back at Ryan’s claim that he is “renting” his belt, while rejecting accusations that he is avoiding Devin Haney or demanding too much money.
“Here’s the truth — I’ve accepted BOTH fights,” Paro posted on X. “My team has been reasonable on the money, and I’ll fight either man any day of the week. I’m a proven two-division world champion. I don’t duck anybody.” He added: “Ryan Garcia — if I’m renting this belt, come and take the fucking keys. Enough talk. Send the contract. Pick the date. I’ll be there.”
Paro’s response makes the belt-renter insult harder for Ryan to keep using without pursuing the fight. The Australian is publicly offering him the opportunity to collect the IBF title, although his post does not disclose the financial terms or establish that either matchup is agreed.
The question for Ryan is whether the reward justifies the risk. Teofimo has identified May 2027 as his preferred date for their proposed unification. That fight remains unsigned, but taking a dangerous opponent beforehand could reduce its appeal or force different plans.
Cruz presents that problem through his pressure and close-range punching. Paro offers a different challenge: a southpaw who could force Ryan into a demanding tactical fight. An additional belt would strengthen Ryan’s position against Teofimo, but losing would give Lopez more bargaining power.
Haney also received a direct invitation to unify. Paro has put both names on the table and challenged them to produce a contract.
Calling Paro a temporary champion is easy. Trying to remove him before a potentially bigger payday is a much tougher decision.