Alan Chaves Must Solve Eridson Garcia Puzzle

The 32-year-old southpaw moves, changes levels, shells up, and looks to counter. Since his knockout loss to Jordan White in 2023, he has beaten William Foster III and Taiga Imanaga. He also completed 10 competitive rounds against Andres Cortes in April.

Because both fighters are southpaws, the lead-hand contest should shape the fight. Garcia can use his right hand to interfere with Chaves’ jab, throw check hooks, and escape before the heavier combinations arrive. Chaves may need committed feints to draw reactions rather than rely on raw timing.

Closing the distance is only half the job. Garcia often ties up when trapped, leaving Chaves to reveal whether he can free one hand, work with short hooks and uppercuts, and attack the body before the referee separates them.

“I am aware that I will have a very difficult fight this Friday, but I’m going to fight in search of that victory,” Chaves said at Thursday’s final press conference.

Eddie Hearn called Chaves a future star after the Madueno stoppage, praising the calculation behind the finish. His No. 2 WBO ranking also gives Matchroom a route toward a mandatory position if champions and contenders decline voluntary fights.

Another early knockout would strengthen the reputation. Garcia surviving into the later rounds may reveal more. Chaves must show that his mechanics remain sharp and his decisions stay disciplined when the explosive opening gives way to a slower tactical contest.