Ryan Garcia's Drug Sample Tests Positive for Banned Substance

Embattled boxer Ryan Garcia's drug test samples collected before his fight against Devin Haney have returned two positive tests for banned performance-enhancing drugs, prompting an investigation by the New York State Athletic Commission.

Ryan Garcia, the undefeated boxing star, has been embroiled in a doping controversy after his drug sample tests reportedly came back positive for a banned performance-enhancing substance. According to boxing writer Dan Rafael, Garcia's B sample results confirmed the presence of Ostarine, a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), in his system. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, casting a shadow over Garcia's recent victory against Devin Haney.

Garcia, known for his flamboyant social media presence, initially responded to the positive test results with a series of now-deleted tweets, expressing a cavalier attitude towards the allegations. However, his lawyers have since issued a statement denying any intentional use of banned substances and claiming that the positive test was likely due to supplement contamination.

"Ryan Garcia is committed to clean and fair competition and has never intentionally used any banned substance," the statement read. "The results of Ryan's hair sample came back negative, which is consistent with contamination and demonstrably proves that Ryan had not ingested Ostarine over a period of time."

Ostarine is a SARM that has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned substance list since 2008. It is known to increase muscle mass and strength, making it a potential performance enhancer in sports.

Garcia's positive drug test has raised questions about the integrity of his victory over Haney, which was widely seen as an upset. The WBC super lightweight championship belt was supposed to be on the line for the fight, but Garcia's weight issues meant that there would be no title at stake.

The New York State Athletic Commission is currently investigating the matter, and Garcia could face significant consequences if the positive test results are upheld. The commission has the authority to suspend or revoke a boxer's license for doping violations.

Garcia's positive drug test has reverberated through the boxing world, with many commentators calling for a lifetime ban from the sport. Conor McGregor, the former UFC champion, tweeted, "Ryan Garcia should get a lifetime ban for this. Cheats like him have no place in the sport."

The full extent of Garcia's punishment will depend on the outcome of the ongoing investigation. However, the positive drug test has undoubtedly damaged his reputation and cast a cloud over his future in boxing.