Ryan Garcia wants to join Dana White in UFC after being handed one-year ban from boxing after positive drugs test
Ryan Garcia seems to be eyeing a move to UFC after being banned from boxing for one year over his failed drugs test.
The American boxer picked up a big points win over rival Devin Haney in April, but that bout has now been declared a no-contest with Haney's undefeated record restored.
It comes after Garcia and his legal team agreed to a settlement with the New York Commission following two failed pre-fight drugs tests, which came back positive for banned substance ostarine.
Garcia has agreed to a suspension of at least one year and has handed back his share of the official contract purse - said to be $1.1million - and has also been fined the state-maximum of $10,000.
This news came after Garcia claimed earlier on Thursday he has 'officially retired'.
And he's now sent a message to UFC boss Dana White in an attempt to secure a move over to MMA, as he reacted on X.
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"They took my victory away," he wrote. "I never F’ing cheated. F YOU!
"Take my victory away, add that on to the list of the s*** I’m already going thru. I’m ready for business. Get ready. I already ain’t give a f***. Run when you see me."
He then added: "I’m headed to the UFC. Dana I want my 50gs.
"For real Dana white hit me up."
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A statement from Team Garcia, released later on Thursday, read: "Ryan Garcia was a victim of substance contamination, with levels measured in the billions and trillions of a gram, which provided no advantage whatsoever in the ring.
"Ryan, with his legal team, has resolved this issue and firmly maintains his truth: he never intentionally took any banned substance. It's simply not in his nature.
"For many years, Ryan has voluntarily submitted to random testing, even during out-of-competition periods, and has never had any issues.
"He has maintained an impeccable and clean record throughout his career, significantly elevating and transcending the sport of boxing, earning respect and admiration from millions of fans worldwide.
"The fans will always remember his performance against Haney as a masterclass, and that will never be erased.
"Ryan will continue to elevate the sport and will be actively involved in advocating for reform. We hope future changes in our system will address issues like this one.
"We want to thank all of the fans who have continued to support Ryan, not only during the great moments but also through the difficult times that life brings.
"He will be back in the ring soon and better than ever!"