Sports
Boxer Ryan Garcia Expelled from WBC for Racial Slurs and Anti-Muslim Comments
The World Boxing Council has taken a significant decision by expelling the well-known boxer Ryan Garcia from any participation with the organization. This action comes in response to Garcia’s repeated use of racial slurs against Black individuals and derogatory remarks towards Muslims during a livestream on social media.
The President of the WBC, Mauricio Sulaiman, made the announcement on the X platform, denouncing all forms of discrimination and asserting the organization’s stance against such behavior. Sulaiman expressed concern for Garcia’s well-being, noting that the boxer has declined offers of help for mental health and substance abuse issues.
Ryan Garcia’s suspension extends beyond the WBC’s decision, as he is currently serving a one-year suspension imposed by the New York State Athletic Commission. This suspension stems from a positive test for the performance-enhancing drug ostarine, leading to the nullification of Garcia’s April 20 victory over Devin Haney, which is now considered a no-contest.
In a notable turn of events, Garcia took to social media to express a form of apology, stating that his controversial statements were made in jest and advocating for an end to violence. Despite the apology, Garcia’s actions have drawn significant attention and consequences within the boxing community.
Garcia, aged 25, has faced a tumultuous period recently, marked by his arrest on felony vandalism charges following an incident at a Beverly Hills hotel. The accusations involved Garcia causing an estimated $15,000 in damage, adding to the string of controversies surrounding the young boxer.
Following the WBC’s decision, Garcia’s family released a statement addressing his behavior and remarks, emphasizing that they do not align with their true beliefs and values as a family. The statement underscored Garcia’s ongoing struggle with mental health issues and the family’s commitment to supporting his well-being and recovery, both in the short term and long term.
AP Sports contributed information to this report on the developments surrounding Ryan Garcia’s expulsion from the World Boxing Council.