Professional boxer Ryan Garcia has vehemently denied allegations of doping after testing positive for a banned steroid ahead of his recent victory over Devin Haney.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) confirmed receiving notification from the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (Vada) regarding Garcia’s “adverse findings” in tests conducted in April. ESPN obtained a letter indicating Garcia’s positive result for ostarine, a banned substance known for its muscle growth properties.
Despite the allegations, Garcia, 25, took to social media to assert his innocence, stating, “Everybody knows that I don’t cheat.” He adamantly denied ever using steroids or being involved in doping, expressing disbelief at the accusations.
Garcia now has 10 days to request testing of his B sample to further contest the results. Ostarine, the substance detected in his tests, has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s prohibited list since 2008.
In his recent bout against Haney, Garcia delivered a stunning upset victory, knocking down his opponent three times. However, Garcia failed to capture Haney’s WBC light-welterweight title after missing weight for the fight.
Both the WBC and Golden Boy Promotions, Garcia’s promoters, have been contacted for comment on the matter. The WBC mandates all its fighters to participate in its ‘clean boxing program’ and collaborates with Vada for drug testing.
Golden Boy Promotions released a statement indicating their intent to investigate the circumstances surrounding the positive test, expressing support for Garcia and his denial of any wrongdoing.
In response, Haney expressed disappointment and condemnation toward Garcia’s alleged actions, stating that the positive test “disrespected both the fans and the sport of boxing.” He emphasized the seriousness of the situation and urged Garcia to apologize to fans for his actions.