Garcia's behavior before the first fight raised eyebrows, making some wonder about his mindset. Things got even messier when he missed the weight by almost four pounds, ruling him out of a shot at Haney's WBC super-lightweight title.
Despite the drama, Garcia won on points and knocked Haney down several times. But the victory didn't last long. Garcia failed a drug test after the fight, turning his win into a no-contest.
Now, Garcia's serving a ban but will be able to fight again in April. Both fighters plan to have separate bouts before squaring off again later this year.
Robert Garcia, a top trainer who's worked with stars like Anthony Joshua and Nonito Donaire, thinks Garcia might have the edge in the rematch. He told ESNEWS:
"I think Haney could beat him. Ryan is so fast and so strong that he could end it with one punch. But do I think Haney could? Yes he could. He has to correct a lot of things that he did but does he have a chance, yes I do believe he could beat him. I think I still favour Ryan, but do I think Haney could pull it off? Yes he could."
Garcia will want to get his career back on track after a year on the sidelines due to the failed test. The rematch promises to be a big event, with both fighters eager to prove themselves after the controversy of their first meeting.