Ryan Garcia: Where Is His Next Fight | Banned | Career Earnings

Ryan Garcia is one of boxing’s most compelling — and controversial — figures in the modern era. From record-breaking social media reach to explosive in-ring action and headline-making setbacks, Garcia’s career story has staying power. This article explores where his next fight is, why he was previously banned, and how much he has made throughout his boxing journey.

Who Is Ryan Garcia? A Quick Introduction

Before we dive into his next bout, suspension and earnings, here’s a snapshot of who Ryan Garcia is.

• Full Name: Ryan Garcia

• Nationality: American

• Nickname: “KingRy”

• Division: Welterweight (recent fights)

• Social Media Influence: Tens of millions of followers across platforms, making him one of boxing’s biggest digital stars. 

Garcia first drew serious global attention for his lightning speed, powerful right hand, and marketability — a blend that makes him a crossover celebrity in sports and entertainment.

Why Was Ryan Garcia Banned? Doping Controversy Explained

One of the most significant disruptions in Garcia’s career came from a ban related to anti-doping violations.

Positive Test After Devin Haney Bout

In June 2024, the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) ruled that Garcia tested positive for the banned substance ostarine, a performance-enhancing drug classified as prohibited by major anti-doping bodies. As a result:

• Garcia received a one-year suspension, retroactive to April 20, 2024.

• His win over rival Devin Haney was officially overturned to a no-contest.

• He was fined $10,000 and forced to forfeit his purse from the bout. 

The fighter’s team has consistently maintained that the positive result came from accidental contamination and that Garcia did not knowingly use performance-enhancing drugs. 

Impact on His Career

That suspension meant Garcia couldn’t fight professionally for roughly one year. Although he resumed life as a normal athlete during that period (training, social media, etc.), his in-ring progress stalled — and the Haney result reversal reshaped narratives around his legacy.

The ban overshadowed one of the biggest fights of his career and ignited debate within the sport about anti-doping enforcement and star athletes.

Ryan Garcia’s Return to the Ring

Despite the suspension setback, Garcia returned to action once the ban was lifted.

May 2, 2025: Garcia vs. Rolando “Rolly” Romero

Ryan Garcia headlined a major fight card in Times Square, New York City, on May 2, 2025, taking on veteran competitor Rolando “Rolly” Romero — another high-profile personality in boxing. 

This bout marked his official comeback to paid competition after the suspension and brought millions of viewers due to the star power of both fighters.

Where Is Ryan Garcia’s Next Fight?

As of December 2025, boxing insiders and reports indicate a potential title fight in the works for Ryan Garcia.

Possible Showdown With Mario Barrios

Recent developments suggest Garcia may be in negotiations for a title shot against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, possibly scheduled for early 2026 (around February or March). This fight is one of the most talked-about possibilities in the sport and could mark his next major career milestone. 

While official confirmation and a contract have not yet been finalized publicly, sources close to the situation say:

• Barrios is the current WBC welterweight titleholder.

• Talks are ongoing between promotional teams.

• This matchup would be a career-defining opportunity if completed.

Rematch With Devin Haney Still on Fans’ Radar

Despite the Barrios pursuit, many fans and pundits still dream of a rematch with Devin Haney — especially considering the controversial overturn of their previous result. If both fighters prevail in their upcoming bouts, a rematch could be one of the biggest boxing events in 2026.

Ryan Garcia’s Career Earnings: How Much Has He Made?

Ryan Garcia isn’t just fighting for titles — he’s also one of boxing’s biggest earners. Let’s break down roughly what he has made throughout his career.

Fight Purses

Here are some of his most notable payday figures:

• Devin Haney (2024): Originally ~$1.1–1.2 million before forfeiture due to suspension.

• Rolando Romero (May 2025): Multimillion-dollar earnings reported — estimates vary widely, but this fight likely generated a major payday thanks to PPV and sponsorship deals. 

Total Career Income (Estimates)

Garcia’s career earnings include:

• Live event purses

• Pay-per-view shares

• Sponsorship income

• Social media monetization

• Appearances and endorsements

Industry estimates suggest his lifetime earnings have surpassed tens of millions of dollars, with influential bouts and media leverage keeping him near the top of the sport’s earning charts.

The Ramirez, Davis, and other high-profile fights likely added significantly to his revenue, though exact totals vary by source.

Controversies Beyond the Ring

Ryan Garcia’s career has not been without non-sporting controversy — a factor that affects public perception and promotional leverage.

Canceled Exhibition in Japan

A planned exhibition bout in Japan was canceled after conflicts with his promotional company, Golden Boy. The failed arrangement led to a lawsuit from the promoters claiming financial loss and breach of contract. 

Public Comments & Backlash

At times, Garcia’s social media remarks and behavior outside the ring have sparked backlash among fans and commentators. Though this hasn’t derailed his earning potential completely, it has created mixed reactions regarding his marketability.

Optimizing Ryan Garcia’s Brand for the Future

Despite setbacks, Garcia remains one of boxing’s most valuable assets — especially when it comes to:

• Media engagement

• Pay-per-view draw

• Cross-genre celebrity appeal

A potential title fight with Mario Barrios or a rematch with Devin Haney presents major financial upside and could be defining moments for his legacy.

Top 5 Predictions for Garcia’s Next 2 Years

1. WBC Title Fight vs. Mario Barrios — A big step toward championship gold. 

2. Rematch with Devin Haney — Once sports’ most controversial bout returns to the table.

3. Fight Against Other Top Welterweights — Names like Teofimo Lopez or Isaac Cruz could enter talks.

4. Continued Brand Expansion — More mainstream exposure beyond boxing.

5. Major Endorsements or Media Projects — Reality TV, documentaries or influencer campaigns.

FAQs About Ryan Garcia

Q1: Who is Ryan Garcia fighting next?

A: As of late 2025, the most talked-about fight for Ryan Garcia is a possible matchup with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in early 2026. 

Q2: Why was Ryan Garcia banned from boxing?

A: Garcia received a one-year suspension after testing positive for the banned substance ostarine following his fight with Devin Haney in April 2024. His win was overturned to a no-contest, and he forfeited his purse. 

Q3: Has Ryan Garcia’s suspension been lifted?

A: Yes. After completing the terms of his one-year suspension, he was cleared to fight again and competed on May 2, 2025. 

Q4: How much has Ryan Garcia earned in his career?

A: While exact figures vary, Garcia has earned tens of millions of dollars throughout his boxing career from fight purses, endorsements, and media deals. 

Q5: Is a rematch between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney likely?

A: Many fans and analysts believe a rematch is possible — especially if both fighters win their next matches — but nothing is confirmed yet.