Ryan Garcia has been expelled from any activity for the WBC after engaging in racist language against Black people and insults directed at Muslims on social media. This incident comes following a one-year suspension retroactive to his April victory over Devin Haney due to failed drug tests. WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman expressed rejection of any form of discrimination and concern for Garcia’s well-being, noting that Garcia declined help with mental health and substance abuse.
Despite this, Garcia has a history of controversial behavior, similar to his actions leading up to the Haney fight where he acted increasingly unhinged, made controversial statements, and missed weight while drinking a beer on the scales. This behavior continued after the fight, indicating ongoing mental health issues.
Sulaiman’s decision to remove Garcia from WBC activities is not surprising given his history of mental health issues and past fight cancellations. However, the impact of this expulsion while Garcia is still under suspension for nearly a year may be limited unless the expulsion lasts longer than the suspension. It remains to be seen how Garcia will address his behavior and mental health challenges in the future.