Michael Conlan (Featherweight contender)
I think that’s a great fight. Linares still has enough in the tank to beat Garcia, in my opinion. Garcia hasn’t faced anyone near Linares’ level yet and Linares also has the speed to match him. Interesting fight and, in my opinion, one or two too soon for Garcia.
Gareth A. Davies (Journalist)
Timing is everything in boxing and 21-year-old Garcia versus 34-year-old Linares would be a bull versus matador fight in a loaded lightweight division fast-becoming a beacon for fan-friendly contests. Garcia hunts, Linares boxes, and the young fighter gets a late stoppage, arguably round eight or nine, with body attacks. Great matchmaking right now for Garcia.
Miles Shinkwin (Former English light-heavyweight champion)
Garcia has passed all tests so far with flying colours and it’s no secret that Linares isn’t the fighter he was but would be a great test for Garcia right now. Safe bet is Garcia on points but never write off a man with the talent of a Linares.
Mickey Helliet (Promoter and manager)
I think it is too early to put Garcia in with Linares. There has been a real buzz around Garcia and he clearly has a great talent, but he’s never been in with anyone even close to Linares, quality or experience-wise. I’d prefer to see Garcia have a few more ‘stepping stone’ fights before he gets pitched in like that.
