Boxing sensation Ryan Garcia finds himself embroiled in controversy after returning “adverse findings” in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) drug test ahead of his bout with Devin Haney, as confirmed by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman.
Despite the test results, Garcia vehemently denies any use of performance-enhancing substances, addressing the allegations in a video shared on social media.
Garcia’s victory over Haney on April 20th in New York propelled him to the spotlight, delivering three knockdowns and securing a majority decision. However, Garcia’s triumph was marred by the revelation that he exceeded the weight limit, disqualifying him from claiming the WBC super lightweight title.
Sulaiman’s announcement on X, formerly Twitter, signaled the initiation of due process under the WBC Clean Boxing Program Protocol, indicating further investigation into Garcia’s case.
According to ESPN, leaked correspondence from VADA disclosed Garcia’s alleged positive test for ostarine, a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), taken on the day before and day of the fight.
In response, Garcia refuted the accusations, asserting his innocence and questioning the logic behind voluntarily undergoing drug testing if he intended to cheat.
Ostarine, a selective androgen receptor modulator akin to anabolic steroids, enhances muscle mass and endurance and its usage is strictly forbidden in competitive sports.
VADA, the independent agency responsible for the testing, has yet to comment on the matter, leaving Garcia’s future in the sport uncertain amidst these doping allegations.
[Image via Shutterstock]