Ryan Garcia was suspended from competition by the World Boxing Council on Thursday after repeatedly using racial slurs against black people and disparaging Muslims in comments broadcast live on social media.
“I exercise my authority … and hereby exclude Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization,” WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman wrote on X. “We reject any form of discrimination.”
Garcia posted a sort of apology on X.
“I was trolling, I want all the killing to stop,” Garcia wrote. “I love everyone, sorry if I offended you.”
Last month, Garcia was suspended for one year by the New York State Athletic Commission. The commission also ruled that his April 20 win over Devin Haney would be thrown out of the competition because he tested positive for doping.
In the lead-up to the fight with Haney, concerns were raised about Garcia’s erratic behavior, both in person and on social media, which degenerated into a disturbing blur of conspiracy theories and clear cries for help. He later denied having any problems. “Come on, guys, did you really think I was crazy?” Garcia said after the fight with Haney.
On Thursday, Garcia’s family distanced themselves from his biased comments in a statement.
“Our family unequivocally does not support any statement [Garcia] “We have made no representations regarding race or religion – these do not reflect who Ryan truly is or how he was raised,” the family’s statement said. “Those who know Ryan can attest to this fact. Ryan has been open about his ongoing struggles with mental health over the years and as a family we are committed to ensuring and encouraging him to receive the support he needs to navigate this very challenging time and address both his immediate and long-term well-being.”