The World Boxing Council (WBC) has banned superstar boxer Ryan Garcia from any involvement with the organization. The decision comes after Garcia posted a series of offensive tweets using racial slurs and mocking the death of George Floyd as well as mocked Islam and Jewish faith.
According to WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, Garcia’s behavior crossed a line that the organization could not ignore. “Exercising my authority as president of the WBC, I am hereby expelling Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization. We reject any form of discrimination. I fear for Ryan’s well-being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health.”
Sulaiman expressed deep concern for Garcia’s mental state, stating that the boxer has exhibited “an ongoing and evident life that he is leaving, highly dangerous, in which he has been seen consuming alcohol and most likely other types of substances.” He emphasized that Garcia must seek help and rehabilitation before the WBC would consider allowing him to compete under their banner again.
Garcia’s parents have also released a statement, acknowledging their son’s recent “statements that do not align with his, or our family’s, true character or beliefs.” They affirmed that their family “unequivocally does not support any statements he has made regarding race or religion” and pledged to ensure that Garcia receives the necessary assistance to address his mental health challenges.
The decision to ban Garcia has sent ripples through the boxing community, as the WBC is widely regarded as the most prestigious governing body in the sport. Sulaiman made it clear that the organization has a zero-tolerance policy for any form of discrimination and will not hesitate to take action against those who violate its principles.
Garcia has been on a rampage of odd behavior for months with many people closest to him disavowing his opinions including his parents.
