At 27 years old, Ryan García embodies the duality of success in modern boxing: fame and fortune. With a following on Instagram that exceeds 12.5 million, García positions himself as one of the most popular American boxers on the platform, although behind figures like Jake Paul, Floyd Mayweather, and Mike Tyson. His media appeal translated into significant financial gains, from lucrative sponsorships to forays into modeling.
However, one achievement has eluded the pugilist in his decade-long professional career: a world championship. This longing represents the third element that García pursues with diligence: respect.
“I’m a little different and I’ve done things backward in my career. Now I plan to get as many world titles as possible to complete the picture of my entire journey. This is the last piece of that puzzle. Being a world champion means you’re the best in the world, and being the best in the world is what God originally tasked me to achieve.”
Ryan Garcia
In the past, García contemplated retirement at 26, but reality led him to re-evaluate his strategy. He understood that haste did not favor his development as a boxer. He needed to slow down, focus on the sport he loves, and prepare adequately, with his father resuming the role of head coach.
After a period of stagnation, Garcia seeks a new direction. A one-year suspension for positive doping tests and controversial decisions outside the ring have cast doubt on his commitment to excellence.
When fully focused, García exhibits remarkable hand speed and power. However, potential alone does not guarantee lasting success.
García is aware of the criticisms and the importance of not being part of the group of great boxers who never won a world title.
The boxer has been recognized for his ability to attract the public’s attention and generate income, but he has not yet achieved the sporting achievements that would consecrate him as a legend.Ryan Garcia knocked down Devin Haney three times in a majority decision victory in April 2024, a result that was later changed to a no-contest.García’s career suffered a setback prior to his fight on April 20, 2024, against Devin Haney. His erratic behavior before the fight and failure to make the weight tarnished the opportunity to obtain the title. Despite being considered the underdog, García managed to knock Haney down three times, obtaining a majority decision victory. However, two weeks later, a positive result for Ostarine was revealed, leading to the annulment of the result and a one-year suspension. García maintains his innocence, but his reputation suffered irreparable damage.
During his suspension, García faced legal problems, including a vandalism charge that was later dismissed. In addition, he was expelled from the WBC after racist comments. After apologizing, García announced that he would seek professional help. In his return to the ring, García lost to Rolando Romero.
García acknowledged his lack of focus and preparation during that period. The defeat cost him a lucrative rematch with Haney, but he still has the opportunity to fight for a title against Mario Barrios.
García is on the verge of a new opportunity. With his father back as a coach, García seeks to prove that he is more than a media figure and that he can reach the top of boxing.Mario Barrios, on the left, will defend his WBC super lightweight title for the third time when he faces Ryan Garcia on Saturday.Despite being the WBC champion, Barrios hasn’t won a fight since May 2024. His last performances resulted in controversial draws, raising doubts about his worth as a champion. Garcia has suggested that this fight will be between two warriors with something to prove, something that Barrios appreciates.
Barrios has brought in Joe Goossen, one of Garcia’s previous trainers, which caused tensions. Goossen knows Garcia well, and the boxer has returned to training with his father. Garcia is aware of what’s at stake in his match against Barrios on Saturday. A victory will prove his worth and a defeat will validate those who doubt him.
