Boxing star Ryan Garcia has been suspended for one year after reaching a settlement with the New York State Athletic Commission due to his positive tests for the performance-enhancing drug ostarine. This suspension is retroactive to Garcia’s decision victory over Devin Haney in April, which has now been overturned to a no-contest. In addition to the suspension, Garcia has forfeited his purse of $1.2 million and has been fined $10,000.
Haney, on the other hand, expressed gratitude to the commission and his fans for their support during this process. He emphasized the importance of clean athletes in the sport of boxing and shared his intention to advocate for clean competition moving forward. Haney’s attorney, Pat English, acknowledged the severity of the penalty imposed on Garcia, highlighting the significant forfeiture amount.
The settlement agreement reached with the commission spares Garcia from a formal hearing, with the condition that he will be reinstated on April 20, 2025, subject to a clean urine test. This resolution comes amidst Garcia’s previous hiatus from the sport due to mental health concerns and subsequent hand surgery.
Ostarine, the banned substance for which Garcia tested positive, is known to promote muscle growth and improve performance. Its usage in boxing has led to past instances of athletes facing suspensions and disqualifications, such as in the cases of Lucian Bute and Amir Khan. Despite Garcia’s denial of intentionally taking banned substances, the repercussions of the positive test stand.
Garcia, recognized as one of boxing’s top attractions, will now be sidelined for an extended period, adding to his career’s ups and downs. His latest victory against Oscar Duarte was overshadowed by the subsequent revelation of the positive drug test. The impact of this suspension on Garcia’s future in the sport remains uncertain, as he aims to clear his name and regain his reputation as a clean athlete.
As the boxing community grapples with the implications of doping violations, the New York State Athletic Commission reaffirmed its commitment to upholding professional standards and preserving the integrity of the sport. The repercussions of Garcia’s suspension serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to combat performance-enhancing substances in boxing and beyond.