International boxing star Ryan Garcia has strongly denied allegations of using performance-enhancing drugs following reports of two positive tests for the banned substance Ostarine. The tests in question were conducted around his April 20th fight against Devin Haney. According to Garcia, his prior tests with VADA on February 26, March 8, March 15, and April 3 were all negative. However, his samples from April 19 and April 20 unexpectedly returned positive results. Garcia has voiced suspicions about the testing process, deeming it implausible for his tests to suddenly show positive results right on the fight date, especially if he were using PEDs, as it wouldn’t make sense to start just before the bout.
Fans on social media have speculated that the positive tests might be part of a conspiracy to undermine Garcia following his victory over the popular, Eddie Hearn-promoted fighter, Devin Haney. Haney previously secured a contentious win over Vasily Lomachenko, which many believed he lost. Garcia's recent win was by a 12-round majority decision in a heavily publicized match on DAZN PPV, further fueling conspiracy theories.
The controversy has somewhat marred Garcia’s victory, with additional reports suggesting he tested positive for another substance, 19-norandrosterone, although this has not been confirmed. Garcia expressed his frustration on social media platform X, stating:
“My levels are so low for someone who took Ostarine. I was posting throughout training, and none of my tests came out positive. Suddenly I’m positive? We know what it is. They make false claims and try to ban me from boxing or put me in jail. Crazy.”
Ryan’s B-sample will likely be tested to verify the initial results. If also positive, he could face suspension. Fans believe that the charges against Garcia could be motivated by various factors including his political endorsements, significant gambling wins, and his victory over a well-connected fighter. If Garcia can clear his name, he anticipates a future mega-fight against Gervonta Davis. However, irrespective of the outcome, Devin Haney’s reputation has taken a hit, unable to escape the vivid memory of being dropped three times by Garcia and rescued by the referee, Harvey Dock, during their fight.
Image Credit: DAZN