The WBC has moved swiftly to expel Ryan Garcia following his using racial slurs against black people and criticizing Muslims on social media.
World Boxing Council president Mauricio Sulaiman revealed Thursday that the sanctioning body had expelled the 25-year-old Garcia. Ryan (24-1, 20 KOs) is suspended by the New York State Athletic Commission until next April.
WBC Condemns Discrimination
“We reject any form of discrimination,” Sulaiman said on X. “I fear for Ryan’s well-being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health and substance abuse.”
Sulaiman didn’t say how this expulsion will affect Ryan, given that he’s suspended. Garcia has already said he’s not interested in fighting for world titles, so the WBCs expelling of him might not have any teeth to it.
When Ryan does return to the ring, he’s not expected to fight for a belt. He can’t make 140 anymore, and the 147-lb division lacks big names besides Jaron Ennis, who isn’t a PPV attraction.
On social media, Ryan Garcia posted this comment, which some view as an apology:
“I was trolling I want all the killing to stop,” Garcia said. “I love everyone sorry if I offended you.”
In a recent training video, Ryan looks like he’s put on weight, and his father, Henry Garcia, expressed concern about his needing help for his drinking problem. Ryan reacted to the comments by posting on social media that he had already stopped drinking. However, that doesn’t explain his racial slurs made on social media on Thursday.
Apology and Family Statement
“Our son recently made statements that do not align with his, or our family’s, true character or beliefs. Our family unequivocally does not support any statements [Garcia] has made regarding race or religion — these do not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised,” the family’s statement read. “Those who know Ryan can attest to this fact. Ryan has been open about his ongoing struggle with mental health over the years and as a family we are committed to ensuring and encouraging that he receives the necessary help to navigate this very challenging time and address both his immediate and long-term well-being.”
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