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WBC Lifts Ban on Ryan Garcia, Opening Door to Possible Mario Barrios Title Shot

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Nov 8, 2025 2:44 PM ET

The World Boxing Council has officially lifted its ban on Ryan Garcia. Reinstating the polarizing star and allowing him to once again compete for WBC-sanctioned world titles. In a statement Thursday night, the sanctioning body confirmed Garcia’s reinstatement, emphasizing a belief in his personal and professional redemption:

“The WBC has been very close to Ryan, his family, management and promoter and we trust a new life inside and outside the ring will begin,” the statement read. “We welcome you with open arms and trust you will be an ambassador for the new generation.”

Garcia’s return marks the end of a 14-month exile that began last July. When he was expelled for repeatedly using racial slurs against Black people. Also making derogatory remarks toward Muslims on social media behavior that compounded his already turbulent year following a failed drug test for ostarine after his fight with Devin Haney.

That bout, originally ruled a win for Garcia, was overturned to a no contest and followed by a one-year suspension from the New York State Athletic Commission.

I’m officially unbanned from the WBC

I want to thank the WBC for seeing my efforts of change and making this decision.

I’m ready to put that green and gold belt on and representing as a true champion

— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) November 4, 2025

From Crisis to Redemption

At the time of his ban, WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán expressed both disappointment and concern:

“We reject any form of discrimination,” Sulaimán wrote in 2024. “I fear for Ryan’s well-being as he has declined multiple attempts for our help with mental health and substance abuse.”

Now, the WBC’s message is one of reconciliation betting that the 26-year-old Garcia can recover from one of the sport’s most public meltdowns.

Potential Mario Barrios Clash Looms

According to ESPN, early talks have begun for Garcia to face current WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, though no deal is finalized. Barrios is fresh off a controversial majority draw against Manny Pacquiao in July a fight that many observers felt the Filipino legend had edged.

Garcia (24-2, 20 KOs) last fought in May. Suffering a stunning upset loss to Rolly Romero, which cast further uncertainty on his future.

If finalized, a Garcia–Barrios title bout would be among the most high-profile redemption stories in recent boxing memory pairing a troubled former superstar with a steady, respected champion.

After months of chaos and controversy. Ryan Garcia once again has a pathway to legitimacy both in the ring and in the eyes of the boxing establishment.

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

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