The WBC quickly removed Ryan Garcia from its roster after he made racist comments about black people and Muslims on social media.
World Boxing Council president Mauricio Sulaiman announced on Thursday that the body had removed the 25-year-old Garcia from the ring. Ryan (24-1, 20 KOs) is currently suspended by the New York State Athletic Commission until April of next year.
WBC condemns discrimination
“We reject any discrimination,” Sulaiman said on X. “Ryan has repeatedly refused our help with his mental health and substance abuse and we are concerned about his well-being.”
Sulaiman did not say how the ban would affect Ryan, given that he is currently suspended, and Garcia has already stated he has no interest in fighting for a world title, so the WBC ban may be ineffective.
If Ryan returns to the ring, he probably won't be fighting for the belt because he can't make 140 pounds anymore and the 147-pound division doesn't have any big names outside of Jaron Ennis, who isn't a PPV attraction.
Ryan Garcia posted the following comments on social media, which some have seen as an apology:
“I was just trolling. I hope the killings stop,” Garcia said. “I love you all and I'm sorry if I caused any offense.”
In a recent training video, Ryan appeared to have gained weight, and his father, Henry Garcia, said he was concerned he might need help with his drinking problem. Ryan responded to the comments by posting on social media that he has already quit drinking, but that doesn't explain the racist comments he made on social media on Thursday.
Apology and family statement
“My son recently made statements that are inconsistent with his true character and beliefs, or those of our family, and our family unequivocally does not support any of the statements made. [Garcia] “Ryan's actions regarding race and religion do not reflect who he really is or how he was raised,” the family's statement read. “Those who know Ryan can attest to this fact. Ryan has been open about his struggles with mental health issues for many years, and our family is committed to supporting and ensuring he receives the help he needs to get through this extremely difficult time and address both his short-term and long-term health.”
