From Amateur Phenom to Pro Star
Garcia began boxing at age seven, compiling an amateur record of 215-15 and earning accolades like a gold at the 2016 World Youth Championships. Turning professional in June 2016 with a TKO win over Edgar Meza, he quickly signed with Golden Boy Promotions and notched knockouts in his early bouts, including a second-round stoppage in his Golden Boy debut.
By 2019, Garcia's star rose with a first-round knockout of Romero Duno for the WBC Silver lightweight title on the Canelo Álvarez undercard. His resilience shone in 2021 against Luke Campbell, surviving an early knockdown to win the WBC interim lightweight title via seventh-round body shot, marking Campbell's retirement fight.
These victories established Garcia as boxing's next big thing, blending speed, power, and charisma that drew millions of followers online.
High-Stakes Battles and Setbacks
In 2022-2023, Garcia dominated Emmanuel Tagoe by unanimous decision and Javier Fortuna via sixth-round KO. However, his April 2023 superfight with Gervonta Davis ended in a seventh-round KO loss, though it solidified his PPV stardom. A 2024 clash with Devin Haney saw three knockdowns and a majority decision win, overturned to NC after Garcia tested positive for Ostarine, leading to a one-year suspension by the New York State Athletic Commission.
Returning in 2025 after a layoff, Garcia headlined in Times Square against Rolly Romero on May 2, going the distance but losing by unanimous decision. This marked his second official defeat, prompting reflections on his training and mental health amid WBC expulsion in July 2024 for declining support offers.
Despite controversies, Garcia's ability to compete with elites like Haney and Romero underscores his talent and marketability.
2026 Title Fight and Legacy
The latest development electrifying boxing: Ryan Garcia's announced 2026 WBC welterweight title challenge against Mario Barrios. This bout, confirmed in November 2025, positions 'King Ry' for redemption after recent losses, potentially in a major venue to capitalize on his fanbase.
At 27, with physical attributes like a 70-inch reach and orthodox stance, Garcia's explosive style could trouble Barrios. Analysts view this as a career-defining opportunity, blending Garcia's knockout power with Barrios' championship experience.
Beyond the ring, Garcia's influence on boxing's popularity endures, inspiring youth while navigating personal struggles openly.