Ryan Garcia issues apology and admits - 'I struggle with substance abuse'

Ryan Garcia has issued a lengthy apology on social media after the boxer's outbursts left fans concerned. On Friday, the 25-year-old posted to his X account, taking responsibility for his words, and admitting he is struggling with some aspects of his life. 

"I take all responsibility for my words," Garcia's X apology began. The boxer claimed he is "misunderstood" and suffering from "trauma". He added: "It's been a tough couple of months, as everyone can tell, but I am sorry."

Garcia then admitted "I struggle with substance abuse" and that it's "hard for me with everything going on". He then pushed back on racism claims and revealed his disappointment, having "offended all my Black family and friends". He added: "This sucks, but all I can do is be better and stop using stupid words and letting some people in my circle hype me up. Sorry everyone that I offended."

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Garcia's apology is in reference to the comments he made on social media. The embattled boxer used islamophobic language, referenced sex trafficking and paedophilia, and used a racial slur in reference to African Americans. 

As a result of Garcia's actions, World Boxing Council president Mauricio Sulaiman effectively banned Garcia because of his erratic behaviour online. "Exercising my authority as president of the WBC, I am hereby expelling Ryan Garcia from any activity with our organization," Sulaiman wrote in a statement.

"We reject any form of discrimination. I fear for (Ryan's) well being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health and substance abuse."

After Sulaiman's punishment, Garcia's family also spoke out about the boxer's comments, separating themselves from them.

"Our family unequivocally does not support any statements [Garcia] has made regarding race or religion - these do not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised," the family's statement began. "Those who know Ryan can attest to this fact.

"Ryan has been open about his ongoing struggle with mental health over the years and as a family we are committed to ensuring and encouraging that he receives the necessary help to navigate this very challenging time and address both his immediate and long-term well-being."

Garcia initially posted an apology shortly after Sulaiman banned him from WBC participation and his family's statement. "I was trolling I want all the killing to stop," he wrote. "I love everyone sorry if I offended you."

This is not the first time Garcia's social media actions have alarmed his family and those in the boxing world. In the months and weeks leading up to his fight with Devin Haney, Garcia often posted disturbing content, seemingly as a way to throw his opponent off his game. 

Instead, those close to him became concerned for his mental well-being, as Garcia threw out accusations of being sexually abused as a child.

When Garcia and Haney finally met in the ring in New York in April, Garcia defeated Haney but his celebration was shortlived. Garcia soon tested positive for Ostarine and was banned from boxing for one year. He was also forced to forfeit his $1.1 million (£870,000) purse, among other punishments.