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Ryan Garcia’s Stunning Confession About Drugs and Alcohol Before Haney Fight

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio G Losada | Last updated Mar 20, 2025 8:41 AM ET

Star boxer Ryan Garcia has spoken candidly about his struggles with alcohol, drugs, and personal issues that led to his downward spiral before and after his fight against Devin Haney.

The 26-year-old admitted that his substance abuse worsened in the aftermath of the bout, culminating in his arrest last summer.

“I was going through a divorce, I was going through a bunch of things that were going on in my life that it was hard for me to cope with,” Garcia told Ring Champs. “I (expletive) up in that regard.”

Garcia’s win over Haney, in which he knocked his opponent down multiple times en route to a majority decision victory, was later overturned to a no-contest after he tested positive for Ostarine.

He was subsequently handed a one-year suspension from boxing.

His problems extended beyond the ring. Garcia admitted to drinking daily, including on the day of the fight, and taking a high dose of psychedelic mushrooms before stepping into the ring.

“I kind of just lost it,” he said. “I can’t really say anything else. I ended up breaking everything in the [hotel] room. I really don’t remember. I was drunk and (expletive) up.”

In June 2024, Garcia was arrested for misdemeanor vandalism after destroying a room at the Waldorf-Astoria in Beverly Hills. He later paid $15,000 in restitution, and the charges were dropped.

“I was in a whole different universe, to be honest,” Garcia said. “I’m surprised I’m here right now. I was drinking every day. Every single day.”

His arrest became a turning point, forcing him to recognize the damage he was doing to his life and career.

“I was doing everything: gambling, drinking, women, anything I wanted to do,” he admitted. “Just destroying my soul. Destroying my spirit. It really took a toll on me.”

Despite acknowledging that the people around him may have influenced his self-destructive behavior, Garcia ultimately took full accountability.

“I personally don’t like to blame nobody, that’s just me,” he said. “I take responsibility. The blame is definitely on me.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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