Ryan Garcia, a former world champion boxer, was expelled by the world’s largest boxing association after he made comments deemed slurs about race and religion during a social media livestream.
“Exercising my authority as president of the WBC, I am hereby expelling Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization,” Mr. Sulaimán said.
“I fear for Ryan’s well being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health and substance abuse,” he added.
In a now-deleted post on X, Mr. Garcia apologized for his remarks.
“I was trolling I want all the killing to stop,” he wrote, The Associated Press reported. “I love everyone sorry if I offended you.”
Golden Boy Promotions, a California-based promotional firm representing Mr. Garcia, did not respond to an emailed request for comment from NTD before press time. An attorney representing the 25-year-old boxer did not answer a request seeking comment either.
“Our family unequivocally does not support any statements he has made regarding race or religion—these do not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised,” the family’s statement reads.
“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. We appreciate the continued support, prayer and compassion.”
The WBC’s announcement comes weeks after the New York State Athletic Commission suspended Mr. Garcia for one year from boxing after he tested positive for the performance-enhancing drug Ostarine the day before and the day of his fight against WBC super lightweight champion Devin Haney.
On June 21, the commission ruled that his April 20 victory over Mr. Haney would be considered a no-contest and Mr. Garcia would have to forfeit the $1 million he made on the fight and pay a $10,000 fine.
“For many years, Ryan has voluntarily submitted to random testing, even during out-of-competition periods, and has never had any issues. He has maintained an impeccable and clean record throughout his career, significantly elevating and transcending the sport of boxing, earning respect and admiration from millions of fans worldwide,” the statement reads.
The California native boxer is 25–1 in his professional career with 20 knockouts. He became the WBC interim lightweight champion in 2021, winning the title when he stopped Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell in the seventh round.
