Boxing sensation Ryan Garcia finds himself embroiled in a controversy following revelations of a failed drug test after his recent fight against Devin Haney.
In a letter from VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency), it was disclosed that Garcia had tested positive in two separate instances: one the day prior to the fight and the other on the fight day itself. The samples revealed heightened levels of ostarine and 19-norandosterone in Garcia’s system.
Despite these findings, the 25-year-old fighter vehemently denied using any performance-enhancing drugs for his bout with Haney. Instead, Garcia suggested that his use of Ashwagandha might have contributed to the failed tests.
Responding to this, the brand Gai Herbs, known for their Ashwagandha supplement, released a statement to clarify the situation:
“Contrary to recent confusion, Gaia Herbs’ Ashwagandha Root does not contain Ostarine. Ashwagandha has been a revered adaptogen for over 2,000 years, traditionally used to support a healthy response to stress. Gaia Herbs remains a staunch advocate for modern purity, potency, and transparency standards.”
In addition to the drug test controversy, Garcia also missed weight for the fight by 3.2 pounds. Despite this setback, he put on an impressive performance on fight day, dominating the majority of the bout against Haney. Garcia managed three knockdowns and secured a victory via majority decision.
His triumph garnered acclaim across the combat sports world. However, news of the failed drug tests has brought considerable criticism to the young boxer.
UFC superstar Conor McGregor did not hold back in his response to the allegations, calling for severe consequences:
“Cheated the weight and was juiced, lifetime ban. Sad to see, sad to say. Sad and a bit sick. Don’t come near me if I see you ever Ryan Garcia, I am actually disgusted.”
Conor McGregor GOES OFF on Ryan Garcia, and Sean O'Malley catches some strays too 😭
"Lets spar O'Malley and Garcia, two little ostarine heads I'll ride you both like yous are ostriches."
(via. @TheNotoriousMMA) #UFC #MMA #Boxing pic.twitter.com/5GlFebmfQm
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 3, 2024
The situation has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Garcia’s recent achievements, prompting significant scrutiny and debate within the fighting community.
