RYAN Garcia’s controversial return to boxing could be put on ice, with the social media star revealing that he will be forced to undergo surgery.
The 26-year-old was supposed to square off against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo on December 30, headlining an exhibition bout on a pay-per-view card in Tokyo.
However, the American withdrew from their contest shortly after sustaining an injury to his right wrist, with his opponent instead facing fellow former K-1 champion Sina Karimian.
But regardless of its cancellation, Garcia’s matchup with Anpo – which could still take place before his year-long ban expires on April 20 – has certainly raised a few eyebrows.
‘King Ry’ produced a punishing performance to floor his former amateur rival, Devin Haney, three times en route to a majority decision victory last year.
The result was then overturned to a no-contest once it emerged that Garcia had failed two drug tests for ostarine, a performance-enhancing substance.
After claiming that the adverse findings were a result of contamination, though, the former world title challenger was only handed a year-long ban by the New York State Athletic Commission.
But now, it would appear that Garcia’s time away from boxing could get extended, with the Californian announcing that he is set to undergo surgery on his wrist.
“After talking to doctors, I’m going to need surgery,” Garcia said during the broadcast for Anpo’s exhibition.
“I’m still excited to fight in Japan soon and this will all resume right after I heal up in 2025.
“So, make no mistake, I am coming back to finish what we started with Anpo and he will eat his words, I guarantee it.”
Anpo is perhaps best known in the boxing world for his exhibition with eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao, dominating the faded legend last year in Japan.
Garcia, meanwhile, seemingly remains focused on silencing the outspoken kickboxer ahead of his return to professional boxing.
