Ryan Garcia Set for January Tune-Up Against Zayani Amid Ban Issues
Ryan Garcia is currently serving a one-year ban from boxing following the controversial aftermath of his showdown against Devin Haney earlier this year. Despite his suspension lasting until April, ‘King Ry’ has seemingly announced an exhibition fight scheduled for January.
Renowned for his lightning-fast hand speed and trademark left hook, Garcia has risen to prominence as one of the most recognizable fighters in the sport, even without holding a world title. The 26-year-old had a chance to claim a championship when he faced Haney in April, but he missed weight by three pounds, losing the opportunity to compete for the belt and incurring a fine from the WBC super-lightweight champion.
On fight night, Garcia showcased his potential as a world-class contender, knocking Haney down for the first time in his career, ultimately securing a majority-decision win—a highlight that would be short-lived.
Soon after his impressive victory, it was revealed that Garcia had tested positive for Ostarine on both the day of the weigh-in and the day of the fight. This led to the result being overturned to a no-contest and resulted in Garcia receiving a one-year suspension from professional boxing.
However, it seems Garcia’s ring return is on the horizon, as he took to social media to announce an exhibition boxing event in Dubai set for January, where he will face undefeated French lightweight Jaber Zayani (18-0). Although not widely known, Zayani has served as a sparring partner for Manny Pacquiao in preparation for Pacquiao’s bout with Keith Thurman in 2019 and was linked to an exhibition match against Pacquiao in Saudi Arabia in 2022.
For Garcia, this outing could serve as a vital opportunity to shake off any ring rust ahead of his professional comeback, with a highly anticipated rematch against Devin Haney rumored for April, alongside a potential clash with WBO super-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez.
