Ryan Garcia faces a tough road ahead after the New York State Athletic Committee suspended him until April 2025. The 26-year-old boxer's career took a sharp turn following a series of controversial events.
Garcia's troubles began with his fight against Devin Haney. He missed weight and couldn't win the WBC Super-Lightweight World title, even though he won the fight on the night. Garcia scored three knockdowns and got a majority decision victory.
But things got worse. Two doping tests showed the banned substance Ostarine in Garcia's system - one the day before the fight and another on fight day. As a result, officials overturned the fight result to a no-contest. They also fined Garcia and slapped him with a 12-month suspension. Garcia says he's innocent, but the damage was done.
"We can set that up in riyadh if you would like Mr Turki, I will do all you ask including drug testing everyday. So please if you can make it happen."
That's Garcia, begging for a rematch with Haney in a message to Turki Alalshikh, a powerful figure in boxing who's backing Haney's comeback. Garcia wants to prove himself, but he's got a long way to go.
On top of the doping scandal, the WBC expelled Garcia for using racist language. It's been a rough time for the young boxer.
Meanwhile, Haney's been dealing with his own issues. He lost to Garcia initially - his first career loss. When the result changed to a no-contest, Haney celebrated getting his undefeated record back. He even thought about suing Garcia for lost earnings.
But Haney's had his own setbacks. He told the WBC he wouldn't face mandatory challenger Sandor Martin, so they made him Champion in Recess. That means he effectively lost his belt.
Three months later, Haney announced his comeback on social media. He tweeted, "I would say the come back.. but I never left.. see you soon brother ????????????" on August 14, 2024.
Despite all the drama from their first fight, both Garcia and Haney seem interested in a rematch. With Alalshikh backing Haney and Garcia desperate for a chance, we might see these two in the ring again soon.
In the grand scheme of boxing, Garcia's one-year suspension isn't that long. Top boxers often fight just once or twice a year anyway. But for Garcia, it's a crucial time to reflect and get back on track.
As the boxing world watches, Garcia and Haney's next moves will shape their careers and potentially set up one of the most anticipated rematches in recent memory.
