BOXING

Ryan Garcia expelled from WBC after racist, Islamophobic rant

Portrait of Bret Bloomquist Bret Bloomquist
El Paso Times

Ryan Garcia has been expelled from the WBC for racist comments on social media, the latest in a series of out-of-the-ring problems for the former lightweight title holder.

Garcia repeatedly used slurs against Black people and Muslims and his suspension from the WBC was announced by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman on X.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 20: Ryan Garcia reacts after their WBC Super Lightweight title bout against Devin Haney at Barclays Center on April 20, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

"We reject any form of discrimination," Sulaiman wrote. "I fear for Ryan well being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health and substance abuse."

Garcia is serving a one-year suspension from the New York State Athletic Commission after a positive test for the performance-enhancing drug ostarine. He was arrested on felony vandalism charges last month after a Beverly Hills hotel accused him of causing an estimated $15,000 in damage.

Ryan Garcia 'apology'

Garcia responded by posting on X: "I was trolling I want all the killing to stop. I love everyone sorry if I offended you."

Ryan Garcia record

His professional record is 24-1-1, with 20 wins coming by knockout.

Ryan Garcia George Floyd comment

Garcia has made comments towards Black people, including he's' "anti-black, I'm the KKK". He also expressed a desire to kill George Floyd again.

Ryan Garcia age

Garcia is 25 years old. His birthday is Aug. 8, 1998.

Family responds

His family released the following statement:

"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."

Ryan Garcia WBC

On Jan. 2, 2001, Garcia defeated Luke Campbell to win the WBC lightweight interim title. He later canceled a fight to defend his title with Javier Fortuna, then suffered a head injury and canceled a fight with Joseph Diaz.

Bret Bloomquist can be reached at bbloomquist@elpasotimes.com; @Bretbloomquist on Twitter.