Ryan Garcia, a prominent boxer, faced allegations of using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) after testing positive for Ostarine before and after his fight against Devin Haney on April 20, 2024. The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) reported the findings in letters sent to all parties involved.
Ostarine is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), which binds to proteins in the body and effectively tells muscles to grow. It has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned list since 2008 due to its potential for enhancing athletic performance.
Garcia, who denied cheating allegations, posted a video on X stating that he doesn't even know where to get steroids. However, his team is working with Golden Boy Promotions to determine the origin of the positive test results.
The outcome of Garcia's victory over Haney may be overturned unless the B-sample returns negative, which is rare in such cases. The result would have significant implications for both fighters as Haney lost his pound-for-pound recognition and fell to No. 4 in ESPN's 140-pound rankings.
The incident highlights the importance of fairness, safety, and integrity in professional athletic competition. It also serves as a reminder that athletes must be diligent about their supplement intake to avoid unintentionally consuming banned substances.
Background: Ryan Garcia (25-1, 15 KOs) defeated Devin Haney (28-1, 15 KOs) via majority decision in a highly anticipated WBC super lightweight title bout at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The fight was significant as it marked Haney's first professional loss and Garcia's lone career defeat coming from Gervonta Davis last April.
Facts:
- Ryan Garcia tested positive for Ostarine on the day before and the day of his win over Devin Haney.
- The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) reported the findings in letters sent to all parties involved.
- Ostarine is a selective androgen receptor modulator that binds to proteins in the body and effectively tells muscles to grow, making it an attractive option for athletes looking for performance enhancement.
- Garcia has 10 days to request that his B-sample be tested, which could potentially clear his name if the results are negative.
- The outcome of Garcia's victory over Haney may be overturned if the B-sample also tests positive for Ostarine or any other banned substance.
- Haney fell to No. 4 in ESPN's 140-pound rankings and lost his pound-for-pound recognition following the defeat.
- The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fairness, safety, and integrity in professional athletic competition.
Sources: ESPN Forbes The Guardian