Ryan Garcia Reports That His Mental Health Is Improving

Ryan Garcia getting back into the swing of things

After defeating Luke Campbell in his first major step-up fight, WBC Interim Lightweight champion Ryan “KingRy” Garcia (21-0, 18 KO’s) was in a great position. He was a social media darling, getting great exposure in the boxing world and had a direct shot at WBC World Lightweight champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (25-0, 15 KO’s). It was at that point that he curiously opted to face Javier Fortuna in a second title eliminator rather than take on Haney straight away. Shortly after signing on for that bout, Garcia abruptly withdrew, citing his mental health as the root cause.

When KingRy initially imploded the Fortuna fight, this decision was met with mixed reactions. Some in the boxing world felt that there were some hijinks at play and gave the Californian kid a rough time. Others were sympathetic to his mental and emotional turmoil and showed support. Later, when Garcia posted vacation pictures with a curvy young damsel, he met with another round of these contrasting responses.

WHAT’S NEXT ON THE MENU?

Now it appears that KingRy is starting to fall back into a bit of normalcy. This was indicated by the fact that he took to his social media to declare that he was back in training. It is good to see the young boxer getting back into a productive groove. Yet, there was no mention of what his next move would be professionally. Revisiting the Javier Fortuna bout is not an option as the talented Dominican has already moved on. It has now been confirmed that he will face former super featherweight world champion Joseph Diaz on July 9.

Even the aforementioned potential bout with Haney is no longer available. The WBC Lightweight champion is now locked into a May 29 dance date with Jorge Linares. Although, given how soon that bout will take place, it is not out of the question that Garcia simply waits for the fight’s outcome. Provided that The Dream wins, which he is predicted to do, KingRy could try to secure that fight then.

Haney has repeatedly called out everyone in the division, Garcia included, and would likely be happy to pen a fight. Yet, at the current time, there is no reason to get overly excited about that potential match. When Garcia was last heard discussing a possible prizefight with Haney, he had nothing positive or encouraging to say. It is great to see Garcia getting back on the right track. However, we will have to wait to see what his next professional move will be.

By: Bakari Simpson

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