A wrist injury has forced Ryan "King" Garcia to postpone his scheduled December 30 exhibition against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo. Originally set to take place over eight two-minute rounds at a 153-pound catchweight, the bout was to be held in Tokyo, Japan, under the RIZIN and FANMIO banners. Promoters will announce a new date in early 2025 once Garcia’s condition improves.
Dr. Steven Shin of Cedars-Sinai Orthopaedics in Los Angeles examined Garcia's aggravated bilateral wrist pain and recommended several weeks of rest. Until more detailed evaluations are completed, Garcia must avoid sparring and competition. The 26-year-old Californian had hoped to remain active during his suspension, which runs until April 2025 due to a positive test for the banned substance ostarine after his fight with Devin Haney was overturned to a no contest.
Garcia expressed disappointment at the setback, having been training intensely in Dallas to face Anpo. He emphasized this was a temporary delay and apologized to all involved - his supporters, the promoters, and his opponent - for the inconvenience. Garcia remains optimistic that the injury won’t affect their eventual showdown.
For his part, Anpo responded with a mix of sympathy and competitive bravado. He wished Garcia a speedy recovery, stating that defeating an injured opponent wouldn’t hold much meaning and that he looks forward to facing a fully fit Garcia in the ring.
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Image Credit: Fanmio