American boxer Ryan Garcia has sparked fresh controversy as 2025 draws to a close, shifting focus back to his disputed fight against Devin Haney. This comes despite a recent loss to Rolando Romero, a hand injury, and an upcoming title bout against Mario Barrios in just two months. The timing of his revelations has surprised the boxing world.
Shocking Confessions in N3on Interview
In a candid interview with popular streamer N3on, filmed during a "Spicy Questions/Hot Ones" style segment, Garcia shared unprecedented details about the lead-up to his April 2024 fight with Devin Haney. When directly questioned about using cocaine, Garcia firmly denied it, stating he had never done it in his life. He expressed a desire to clear the air after facing numerous accusations following the bout.
The conversation took a more revealing turn when N3on probed about the day before and the day of the Haney fight. Garcia admitted, "For the Haney camp, obviously I was drinking a little bit up to the fight, and then the day of, I had a full blue moon." He then made an even more startling confession, revealing he smoked a joint before entering the ring. "And then I smoked a joint before the fight, and then I went to the locker room high as sh*t," Garcia said.
The Fight Fallout and Overturned Result
Despite his admitted state, Garcia delivered a stunning performance that night, dropping the previously undefeated Haney three times and securing a majority decision victory. The win, however, was short-lived. The result was later overturned to a no-contest after Garcia failed multiple post-fight doping tests for the banned substance Ostarine.
Garcia has addressed his unprofessional conduct before. Earlier this year, he admitted to "drinking every day, every single day, even the day of the (Haney) fight." In his recent comments, he reiterated regret, warning others not to see his actions as a blueprint for professional behavior.
Looking Ahead: Barrios and a Potential Haney Rematch
Now, with time passed and emotions settled, Garcia appears focused on redemption. His immediate challenge is a title fight against Mario Barrios, scheduled for early 2026. A victory there could dramatically reshape his career trajectory and re-open the door for a high-stakes rematch with Devin Haney.
This potential rematch is now back in serious discussion, adding immense pressure to Garcia's upcoming performance against Barrios. For Ryan Garcia, the next fight is not just about a title; it's a critical step toward defining his legacy and moving past the shadow of the Haney controversy.
