Boxer Ryan Garcia is facing potential suspension from the New York State Athletic Commission after both his A and B samples tested positive for the banned substance ostarine. The tests were conducted the day before and the day of his April 20 fight against Devin Haney, which Garcia won by majority decision.
Attorney Pat English, representing Haney, revealed that the B-samples confirmed the presence of ostarine, a Selective Androgen Receptor Modulator (SARM) prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The tests were conducted by the Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory, under the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA).
Garcia’s legal team argues that the positive test results from a contaminated supplement. In a statement, they emphasized Garcia’s commitment to clean and fair competition, noting that he has never intentionally used any banned substances. To support their claim, Garcia voluntarily underwent hair sample testing by Dr. Pascal Kintz, a leading expert in toxicology, which returned negative for ostarine.
“This is consistent with contamination and proves that Ryan did not ingest ostarine over a period of time,” Garcia’s legal team stated. “He has voluntarily submitted to numerous tests throughout his career, all of which have been negative until now. The ultra-low levels detected, in the billionth of a gram range, suggest contamination without any performance-enhancing benefit.”
Despite these claims, the positive test results will be reviewed by the New York State Athletic Commission, which could lead to a suspension. Victor Conte, an advisor for Haney, indicated that Garcia’s B-sample tested positive and that the matter is now with the commission.
English added, “The typical procedure is for the commission to issue a suspension, but Garcia could opt for a hearing.” The commission has yet to respond to requests for comments.
Garcia, who has denied taking steroids, expressed his frustration on social media, stating, “I don’t care I’ll never make money again with boxing.”
This development comes as a significant blow to Garcia’s career, and the boxing community is closely watching how the commission will handle the situation.
