Boxing superstar Ryan Garcia has ignited a heated debate by naming Muhammad Ali as the greatest athlete of all time, while simultaneously taking aim at NBA legend Michael Jordan.
During an appearance on Kick Game’s “Shopping for Sneakers” podcast, Garcia did not mince words when addressing the legacy of the iconic Chicago Bulls player. When the host pointed to a pair of Air Jordans, referencing the former basketball star, Garcia unleashed a scathing critique.
“No, [Michael] Jordan didn’t do s**t for the people. Jordan made some shoes,” he exclaimed in the video. “I don’t give a f**k about no six rings, I give a f**k about what you did outside the court… What did you do outside the court bro? I like Kobe [Bryant] better than him.”
Garcia’s remarks came in response to the host’s question about naming the greatest athlete of all time, to which the boxer quickly replied, “[Muhammad Ali].” While Ali’s remarkable career and transcendent impact on sports and society are widely recognized, Garcia’s decision to directly attack Jordan’s legacy has sparked a wave of controversy.
The 25-year-old boxer’s comments were not entirely negative, however, as he revealed that his father, who is from Chicago, is a big fan of Jordan. “My dad’s from Chicago, my dad loves Jordan. I met Jordan, he’s cool,” he added.
Jordan’s achievements on the basketball court are undeniable, as he led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA championships and became a cultural icon. In contrast, Bryant, who Garcia professed to admire more, won five NBA titles and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Garcia, who has not fought since his impressive victory over Devin Haney last April, has also faced his own share of controversy recently. The boxer not only missed weight for the super-lightweight clash but also tested positive for ostarine.
