Ariel Helwani Discusses Ryan Garcia’s Potential Move to Japanese Promotion Rizin

Ryan Garcia and Ariel Helwani 

The rumor mill regarding Ryan Garcia has something new for the fans. ‘King’ Ryan might be eyeing a stint in Japan’s Rizin Fighting Federation.

MMA Fighting’s Ariel Helwani recently addressed these whispers on “The MMA Hour.”

Garcia is currently serving a one-year suspension for a positive drug test and can’t fight in North America. But Japan is a different ballgame, according to Helwani.

“If any commission in North America suspended someone, it doesn’t matter what sport, the other commissions would honor it. There are some rumors that he is going to show up at the Rizin event in July, but I’m not sure in what capacity. Now, if Rizin wanted to use him [Garcia], they don’t have to honor or adhere to any commission in North America.”

Ariel Helwani via The MMA Hour

The rumor mill suggested Garcia might appear at Super Rizin 3 on July 28. This event will feature boxing legend Manny Pacquiao in a ‘RIZIN Special Standing Bout’ against former K-1 champion Rukiya Anpo. Helwani was quick to point out that if Garcia fights, it doesn’t have to be an MMA fight. Rizin has hosted boxing matches before. So Garcia could stick to what he knows best.

The timing of these rumors is interesting, given Garcia’s current predicament. He’s not eligible to fight in North America until April 20, 2025. That’s a long time for a young, hungry fighter. Garcia’s suspension came after the result of his blockbuster bout with Devin Haney was overturned to a no-contest due to his use of performance-enhancing drugs. ‘King’ Ryan was charged a hefty $1.1 million for his actions, meanwhile, his personal life has also taken some serious hits recently.

Ryan Garcia Still Struggling With Personal Issues; Allegedly Broke Into Ex-Wife’s Home

Boxing star Ryan Garcia’s personal life has taken a turbulent turn. The talented fighter, known for his lightning-fast hands, is now facing allegations of destructive behavior. His ex-wife, Andrea Celina, claimed Garcia vandalized their shared home and sent threatening messages after being denied the right to visit his child on grounds of substance abuse.

Celina also shared photos on of the chaotic scene inside her residence following her refusal to let Garcia meet their children. A small trampoline, plants, and children’s toys were scattered across the living room. TV’s were broken as well. Security camera footage allegedly captured Garcia’s outburst and aggressive behavior during the incident.

Celina also posted screenshots of disturbing text messages. In these messages, Garcia can be seen using derogatory language and making violent threats. Garcia’s recent behavior is proving to be more and more erratic, naturally raising eyebrows. He was recently expelled from the World Boxing Council after a controversial social media rant against the black and Islamic community.

The boxer also failed two drug tests following his victory over Devin Haney, resulting in a 12-month suspension from the sport. Ryan Garcia’s father also publicly implored his son to go to rehab and fix his life. Whether Garcia will bounce back, both from professional and personal tragedies, remains to be seen.