Ryan Garcia has boldly challenged UFC legend Conor McGregor to a bare-knuckle boxing match. This comes after Garcia tested positive for the performance-enhancing drug ostarine, both the day before and on the day of his surprising victory over long-time rival Devin Haney.
Despite coming in 3lbs overweight and facing a financial penalty, the news of his failed drug test was not revealed until after his win. McGregor, who had previously been seen offering words of encouragement to Garcia following his loss to Gervonta Davis, has since publicly criticised the boxer for his failed drug test.
In a now-deleted post, The Notorious stated: “GET YOUR HEAD TOGETHER OR KILL YOURSELF,” and “Cheated the weight and was juiced, lifetime ban. Sad to see, sad to say. Sad and a bit sick.
“Don’t come near me if I ever see you again Ryan Garcia. I am actually disgusted… If I was Haney’s dad you’re dead no matter what for doing that. Crazy. What happened to you, you little fool .Get your head together (because) I’m gonna smash it in with elbows if you don’t. Fair play Devin well done. Your performance has just become even more heroic.”
McGregor is gearing up for a summer showdown against Michael Chandler at UFC 303, but it seems he may have another battle on his hands. Garcia has fired back at McGregor, challenging the Irishman to a bare-knuckle boxing match.
“If I see Connor mcgregor I’m going to break your weak ankle You ran from being tested bc you were on Roids Roadhouse or ROIDRAGE FUDGE CONNOR CACA BRAIN,” Garcia responded on X.
Garcia then dared McGregor to wager his whiskey brand in their potential fight. “Bare knuckle Let’s go CONNOR Winner gets your trash whiskey brand.,” the boxer taunted.
The VADA drug test results are now under scrutiny by the New York Commission, which could potentially overturn the result to a no-contest. Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn disclosed that Haney is livid over the situation.
The loss to Garcia is currently the only blemish on his professional record – a stain he’d like removed if the test result is confirmed.
“I spoke to Devin last night, in his mind he’s absolutely furious,” Hearn revealed to The Stomping Ground. “The guy came in three-and-a-half pound overweight and had performance-enhancing drugs in his system. He will want the contest to be an immediate no-contest [and] for that to be scrubbed off the card.
“Regardless of Ryan’s innocence or guilt in this situation, he had performance-enhancing drugs in his system when he fought Devin Haney – and he came in three-and-a-half pounds over. If you’re Devin Haney right now you’re thinking, ‘I’ve been screwed.”