Ryan Garcia's Exhibition Fight and Future Plans

Ryan Garcia, currently serving a one-year suspension from professional boxing due to a failed drug test, announced his return to the ring in an exhibition match against Japanese kickboxer Rukiya Anpo on December 30, 2024, in Tokyo. This match allows Garcia to stay active while his professional ban remains in effect until April 2025, following an April 2024 bout with Devin Haney that was overturned to a no contest due to the doping violation. Garcia's choice of opponent, Anpo, who previously fought Manny Pacquiao in a similar exhibition, is motivated by Garcia's desire to defend legendary boxers' reputations, as he expressed dissatisfaction with Anpo's aggressive approach against Pacquiao. Additionally, Garcia has shown interest in a future fight with Jake Paul to avenge Paul's victory over Mike Tyson, despite significant weight class differences. This exhibition against Anpo will be broadcasted as a pay-per-view event, with Garcia's purse expected to be substantial.