Ryan Garcia’s family has opened up on his rant that got him punished by the World Boxing Council.
The controversial star boxer went on a racially charged tirade on X Spaces earlier this week that led to being expelled by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman.
Garcia’s rant included the use of the N-word and invoking the Ku Klux Klan.
Now, his family has spoken out against his remarks and said they don’t reflect his “true character.”
“Our family wishes to address recent statements made by our son, Ryan, that do not align with his, or our family’s, true character or beliefs,” Garcia’s family said in a statement condemning their son’s comments. “Our family unequivocally does not support any statements he has made regarding race or religion — these do not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised. Those who know Ryan can attest to his genuine respect and love for people of all races and religions.
“Ryan has been open about his ongoing struggle with mental health over the years. As a family, we remain committed to encouraging and ensuring he receives the necessary help to navigate this very challenging time and address both his immediate and long-term well-being. We deeply appreciate the continued support, prayers and compassion you have towards our family during these hard times.”
Garcia apologized Friday and said he was also going to rehab.
“I’ve supported many black men and black communities. I’m not mad at the outrage and I sincerely apologize if I hurt and offended anyone. But my pain deserves to be felt, black and brown have always united. And it will always be that way.”
Sulaiman, in expelling Garcia from the WBC said: “I fear for Ryan well being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health and substance abuse.”
Super welterweight contender Vergil Ortiz Jr. ( 21-0, 21 knockouts) sparred Garcia twice in the amateur boxing circuit and maintained that he doesn’t think this is the real version of the 25-year-old.
“I’ve known Ryan since the amateurs, when we fought only TWICE btw lol. He was never like this,” Ortiz wrote on X on Friday. “I’m not making ANY excuses for him or his actions. I’m legitimately worried about him, as a friend would be worried about his friend.”
He added he’s “worried” for Garcia.
This came after a back-and-forth the two had on X on Thursday where Garcia challenged Ortiz to spar.
In response, Ortiz instructed him to “pull up.”
Garcia, whose win over Devin Haney on April 20 was wiped away due after a positive performance-enhancing drug test and subsequent suspension from the New York State Athletic Commission, is 24-1 with 21 KOs and a no-contest.
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