Ryan Garcia has been expelled by the World Boxing Council (WBC) after a social media livestream where he repeatedly used racist and discriminatory language against Black people and Muslims. According to the Associated Press, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman stated that Garcia has been expelled from any activity with their organization and that they reject any form of discrimination.
Garcia posted an apology on social media, stating that he was trolling and wanted the killing to stop. He expressed love for everyone and apologized if he offended anyone. However, he deleted the post later on. CNN has reached out to Garcia’s representatives for comment but has not received a response yet.
Following his expulsion from the WBC, Garcia’s family released a statement citing his mental health issues. They mentioned that they do not support his statements regarding race or religion, stating that it does not reflect who Ryan truly is and how he was raised. The family acknowledged Ryan’s ongoing struggle with mental health and expressed their commitment to ensuring he receives the help he needs during this challenging time.
Sulaiman added in his post that the WBC had offered Garcia assistance with mental health and substance abuse issues multiple times. This incident highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the consequences of using discriminatory language in professional sports.
The expulsion of Ryan Garcia from the WBC is a reminder of how important it is to promote inclusivity and respect for all individuals regardless of their race or religion in professional sports. The incident also underscores the need for mental health awareness programs to provide support for athletes struggling with these issues.
Garcia’s family statement further emphasizes that it is essential to recognize that people are complex beings, even those who make mistakes or engage in behavior that goes against societal norms. It is crucial to provide them with resources and support rather than condemnation or exclusion.
In conclusion, while Ryan Garcia’s actions were unacceptable, it is vital to remember that we all have our struggles and challenges as human beings. We must strive to create a world where everyone feels included, respected, and valued regardless of their background or beliefs.