Just weeks after scoring a shocking upset victory over Devin Haney, boxing star Ryan Garcia is now facing serious backlash and credibility questions after new revelations have cast doubt on the legitimacy of both his win and his public image. What started as a triumphant return to the spotlight has quickly turned into a storm of controversy, accusations, and public scrutiny.

The Breakdown: What Happened?

In the aftermath of Garcia’s stunning majority decision victory over Haney, which saw him drop the previously undefeated champion three times, fans and analysts were already raising eyebrows over Garcia’s erratic behavior leading up to the fight. From bizarre social media rants to missing weight by over 3 pounds, Garcia’s preparation — or lack thereof — was the subject of massive criticism.

Now, things have taken a more serious turn.’

PED Allegations Surface

Earlier this week, multiple sources within the boxing community revealed that Ryan Garcia tested positive for a banned substance in a pre-fight drug test conducted by VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association). While the test results are still pending confirmation from B-sample analysis, the initial report has already rocked the sport.

If confirmed, Garcia could face a multi-year suspension, a possible overturning of his win, and serious damage to his already fragile reputation.

“If the reports are true, this changes everything,” said ESPN boxing analyst Tim Bradley. “You can’t scream ‘hard work and God’ while cheating the system.”

Mental Health or Manipulation?

Garcia has long cited his struggles with mental health, and many fans sympathized with his openness. But some critics now suggest that Garcia may have been using those claims as a shield from criticism or accountability.

Throughout the Haney fight build-up, Garcia vacillated between religious declarations, conspiracy theories, and chaotic online behavior — some of which now appears to have been strategically designed to lower expectations or divert attention from deeper issues.

Devin Haney Responds

Haney, who had largely remained composed after the loss, took to X (formerly Twitter) with a subtle but sharp message:

“Cheaters never prosper. Karma always comes around. #StaySolid”

His team is reportedly filing an official appeal with the commission to overturn the decision if the doping violation is confirmed. If successful, the bout could be ruled a no-contest or even reversed.

Public Reaction: From Support to Skepticism

Garcia’s once-loyal fanbase is now deeply divided. While some still support him, others are calling for serious consequences, especially given the brutal nature of the fight and the physical toll it took on Haney.

“I was rooting for Ryan,” said longtime fan Marcus Lee. “But if he cheated, that’s unforgivable. Boxing is dangerous enough without dirty fighters.”

Garcia’s Response: Defiant or Delusional?

In a brief Instagram Live, Garcia denied the allegations and suggested he’s being targeted for speaking the truth, saying:

“They’re scared of me. I told y’all I was chosen by God, and now they’re trying to erase me. But I will not be silenced.”

His words have sparked even more criticism, with many fans accusing him of deflecting instead of addressing the issue directly.

What’s Next for Garcia?

If the B-sample comes back positive, Garcia could face:

Suspension from all major boxing organizations

Heavy fines

Legal action from Haney’s camp

And perhaps most damaging of all: a permanent stain on his legacy

With his behavior under increasing scrutiny and his career hanging in the balance, Ryan Garcia may have just gone from boxing’s wild card to its biggest cautionary tale.