This lightweight contest on the undercard of “The Ring V: Night of the Samurai” (headlined by Naoya Inoue vs. Alan David Picasso) features rising Japanese prospect Taiga Imanaga against veteran Dominican Eridson Garcia. Originally a showcase for Imanaga, Garcia stepped in as a late replacement, bringing experience and power to test the undefeated southpaw in this 10-round bout.
Venue Location
The fight takes place at the Mohammed Abdo Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This modern outdoor venue, part of the Riyadh Season festival, has a capacity of approximately 22,000 and provides a neutral, high-energy setting for international cards.
Ringwalk early on the card (around 5:00-6:00 a.m. ET), as part of the main card starting at 4:00-5:00 a.m. ET.
Broadcast/Streaming: Available worldwide on DAZN (pay-per-view or subscription tier in select regions).
Recent Form
Both fighters entered with strong momentum, but Garcia’s experience against tougher opposition stands out. Summary of last five bouts:
| Fighter | Last 5 Fights (Most Recent First) | Form Notes |
| Taiga Imanaga | W UD vs. Yudai Murakami (Sep 2025), W UD vs. Romer Pinili (Mar 2025), W UD vs. Yoji Saito (Nov 2024), W KO vs. Marvin Esquierdo (Jul 2024), W earlier stoppage | Imanaga has gone the distance in recent fights, showcasing technical boxing, sharp jab, and footwork. Strong amateur background translates to disciplined performances, but limited pro experience (9 fights). |
| Eridson Garcia | W vs. Brian Pava (Nov 2025), W vs. Cristian Perez Hernandez (Sep 2025, TKO), W vs. Jeovanny Antonio Tellez (Apr 2025), earlier wins | Garcia on a win streak post his lone loss, with recent stoppages and decisions. Known for pressure and power, ranked in super featherweight top 15 previously. |
Imanaga’s fights often go longer recently, emphasizing skill over power.
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Imanaga and Garcia. No shared opponents. Garcia stepped in late after original opponent withdrew, making this a significant step-up for Imanaga against a durable, ranked veteran.
Injury Report
Taiga Imanaga: No reported injuries. Made weight comfortably at 134.6 lbs and appeared healthy at weigh-in.
Eridson Garcia: No injuries noted. Weighed in at 134.5 lbs, ready as late replacement.
Fighter Matchups
This 10-round lightweight bout pits technical precision against aggressive power:
Style Clash: Imanaga (southpaw, height 5’9.5″, reach 71″) uses sharp jabs, footwork, and counters from the Japanese school. Garcia brings forward pressure, heavy hands, and inside fighting to disrupt rhythm.
Power vs. Skill: Garcia’s 64% KO rate tests Imanaga’s chin; Imanaga’s movement could frustrate Garcia and lead to points accumulation.
Experience Edge: Garcia’s 23 pro fights vs. Imanaga’s 9; neutral venue favors the veteran in adapting to big stage.
Key Dynamics: Early rounds tactical; if Garcia closes distance, his power shines—otherwise Imanaga boxes to decision.
Betting Trends
Taiga Imanaga: Undefeated as favorite; recent fights trend to decision (unders hitting). Japanese prospects strong in technical bouts on big cards.
Eridson Garcia: Value as underdog; history of upsets via pressure. Late replacements often cover or win outright in Riyadh events.
General Trends: Riyadh undercards favor decisions in prospect-vs-veteran matchups; unders common in lightweight clashes.
FIGHT ODDS
Taiga Imanaga – 200
Eridson Garcia + 170
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, December 26, 2025
