By: Sean Crose
Ryan Garcia had a tough day yesterday. The 25-year-old boxer tested positive for the banned substance ostarine both before and after his bout with Devin Haney in Brooklyn earlier this year. The New York State Athletic Commission decided to take strict action against Garcia by nullifying his win over Haney and suspending him from competing in New York for a year.
Along with the suspension, Garcia had to give up his million-dollar prize from the Haney fight and was fined ten thousand dollars for using a performance-enhancing substance. Haney, who had lost to Garcia in their match in April, supported the decision to change the result to a “no contest.”
Haney expressed his gratitude on social media towards the commission for the fair ruling, while Garcia voiced his disappointment, saying, “They snatched my victory from me.” Despite announcing his retirement the day prior to the commission’s decision, Garcia continued to make strong statements online, including his interest in transitioning to the UFC.
Garcia’s promoter, Golden Boy, defended him by stating that he was a victim of substance contamination and did not gain any unfair advantage in the ring. The company commended Garcia’s performance against Haney as a memorable showcase that fans will not forget.
