American boxer Ryan Garcia has been handed a one-year suspension by the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) after testing positive for the performance-enhancing drug ostarine.
The 25-year-old Ryan Garcia had reached a settlement with the commission following his positive tests, which were conducted before his highly publicized fight against Devin Haney on April 20.
As a result of the suspension, Garcia's victory against Haney will be overturned and recorded as a no-contest, restoring Haney's undefeated record.
Garcia will also forfeit his $1.2 million contract purse from the fight and pay a $10,000 fine. The NYSAC confirmed that Garcia's suspension will run until April 20, 2025, and he will need to provide a clean urine test before his license can be reinstated.
Ostarine, a non-steroidal drug used to support muscle growth, has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned substance list since 2008.
Garcia had denied taking the substance, blaming contamination from a tainted supplement.
Despite his denial, the NYSAC has held him accountable for the positive test results.
Garcia, who has only one defeat on his 25-fight record, is considered one of the biggest stars in American boxing. His suspension has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, with many fans and pundits expressing their disappointment and frustration.
Haney, whose record now stands at 31 victories in 31 fights, has welcomed the decision, saying that he is happy to have his undefeated record restored.
Haney has also called for a rematch against Garcia once his suspension is over, saying that he wants to face him on a "clean and even playing field."
The NYSAC has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest professional standards in sports, stating that it will continue to hold athletes accountable for any violations of its anti-doping policies.
The commission's decision serves as a reminder to athletes that the use of performance-enhancing drugs will not be tolerated and that the integrity of sports must be protected at all costs.