Golden Boy signs major lightweight prospect Ryan Garcia

Golden Boy Promotions Chairman Oscar De La Hoya said he believes he’s landed one of the most exciting boxing prospects available with the addition of 18-year-old lightweight Ryan Garcia.

De La Hoya announced the deal Monday and said the Victorville-based fighter will make his debut under the Golden Boy banner Dec. 17 on the non-HBO portion of the Bernard Hopkins-Joe Smith Jr. light-heavyweight main event at the Forum.

A former 15-time national amateur champion, Garcia (6-0, five knockouts) has fought exclusively in Mexico until now. As an amateur, he was 215-15. He has fought since the age of 7.

“His amateur pedigree is among the best I’ve ever seen; his skill set is far beyond his 18 years … I expect enormous things from Ryan and am excited to work with him as he embarks on a career that I’m sure will include multiple world championships,” De La Hoya said in a prepared statement.

“I can’t wait to get in the ring and start showing the world what I’m capable of,” Garcia said.

His opponent has yet to be announced.