Controversial Boxer Ryan Garcia Expelled From World Boxing Council After Racist Rants

The World Boxing Council (WBC) has announced the expulsion of rising boxing star Ryan Garcia from its organization. The decision, made by WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, comes in the wake of Garcia’s controversial behavior both inside and outside the ring.

Sulaiman cited Garcia’s “bizarre social media behavior” as the primary reason for the decision, and stated that the boxer has repeatedly used racial slurs and made disparaging remarks about George Floyd, a black man who lost his life in 2020 after a Minneapolis police officer used excessive force and knelt on his neck for more than eight minutes. “Exercising my authority as president of the WBC, I am hereby expelling Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization,” Sulaiman declared. “We reject any form of discrimination, and I fear for [Garcia’s] well-being.”

In addition to his expulsion from the WBC, Garcia is in the process of serving a one-year suspension from the New York State Athletic Commission after he tested positive for a banned substance prior to his April fight against Devin Haney. Despite winning by majority decision, Garcia’s victory has since been changed to a “no contest.”

Concerns around Garcia’s mental fitness were also raised prior to the Haney fight, with reports of erratic behavior online. Sulaiman revealed that the WBC had made “multiple attempts” to provide Garcia with assistance for his mental health and substance abuse issues, but the boxer had declined their efforts.

Garcia’s latest incident occurred last month when he was arrested at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Beverly Hills for felony vandalism. According to the Beverly Hills Police Department, Garcia allegedly caused more than $15,000 in damages to a guest room and the hotel hallway.

The expulsion from the WBC marks a significant blow to Garcia’s professional boxing career, as the organization is one of the most prestigious and influential governing bodies in the sport.