Ryan Garcia is stepping back into the boxing ring after a highly turbulent period that saw his career temporarily derailed by personal issues, professional sanctions, and public controversy.
The talented boxer endured a chaotic 2024 that began with the end of his marriage in January. His personal life became unexpectedly public when he announced his divorce from his wife just hours after revealing the birth of their son. According to reports, the couple had married in 2021 but separated on Christmas Day 2023.
Garcia's professional troubles escalated significantly when he tested positive for Ostarine, a performance-enhancing substance, following his victory over Devin Haney in April 2024. Despite his consistent denials of intentional doping, claiming he "barely takes supplements" and "doesn't know where to get steroids," the New York State Athletic Commission imposed a one-year suspension on the boxer.
During this period away from professional competition, Garcia's behavior on social media raised serious concerns about his mental health. His online presence was marked by bizarre rants, offensive comments, and troubling claims. In one particularly low moment, Garcia made racist statements during a live stream in July 2024, which prompted the World Boxing Council to expel him from the organization.
His personal struggles continued when he was arrested in June 2024 for allegedly causing approximately $15,000 in damages to a hotel room in Beverly Hills. His attorney attributed the incident to a mental health episode triggered by learning about his mother's health issues. The vandalism charge was eventually dismissed in October 2024.
According to Statbet analysis, Garcia's return is among the most anticipated comebacks in boxing this year, with fan interest surging despite the controversies surrounding his previous fight's legitimacy.
Now, after completing his suspension and being officially reinstated on April 20, 2025, Garcia claims he has "made the mental comeback" and is ready to resume his boxing career. His return bout is scheduled against Rolando Romero at Times Square, marking what Garcia hopes will be the beginning of a new chapter in his tumultuous career.
While Garcia appears eager to focus on boxing again, his troubled history and the lingering effects of his suspension may cast a shadow over his comeback attempt. The boxing world will be watching closely to see if the talented but controversial fighter can successfully put his troubled past behind him and reestablish himself in the sport.
