“I Will Do All You Ask”: Ryan Garcia Pleads with Turki Alalshikh for Devin Haney Rematch in Riyadh
In a dramatic turn of events in the boxing world, Ryan Garcia is making headlines with a bold plea for a rematch against Devin Haney, aimed squarely at His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, the prominent figure behind Riyadh Season. The call for redemption and a high-stakes rematch comes amidst a turbulent year for Garcia, who has been embroiled in controversy and facing a one-year suspension following a failed drug test.
The saga began on April 20, 2024, at New York’s Barclays Center, where Garcia’s victory over Haney was overshadowed by subsequent drug test failures, rendering the match a no-contest. The fallout from this scandal was swift: Garcia faced a one-year ban from boxing and was expelled from the WBC in July, following a series of online tirades that only exacerbated his troubles.
Amid these setbacks, Garcia has sought to rehabilitate his image and career, and his recent public appeals reflect a desperate bid for redemption. His recent Twitter interaction with Alalshikh revealed his eagerness to settle scores and secure a rematch with Haney. “We can set that up in Riyadh if you would like Mr. Turki,” Garcia tweeted. “I will do all you ask, including drug testing every day. So please, if you can make it happen.” The plea not only underscores Garcia’s determination but also highlights the role of high-profile figures like Alalshikh in shaping major boxing events.
“We can set that up in Riyadh if you would like Mr. Turki,” jumped in Ryan Garcia while responding to HE Alalshikh’s tweet. He continued, “I will do all you ask including drug testing everyday So please if you can make it happen.”
Haney, who has been keeping a low profile since the debacle, hinted at a possible comeback, generating buzz in the boxing community. Alalshikh’s response—“Deliver the job champ”—suggests he is open to facilitating the anticipated rematch, adding fuel to the speculation and excitement surrounding this potential showdown.
Garcia’s engagement in recent events, including a controversial appearance at ‘Super Rizin 3’ in Saitama, Japan, where tensions nearly boiled over, only adds to the narrative of his tumultuous year. His appearance at the event, coupled with rumored talks with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for an exhibition match in Japan, has kept him in the spotlight despite his ban.
As the countdown to Garcia’s return continues, questions loom about his path to redemption. With eight months remaining on his suspension, Garcia’s options are limited, but his willingness to undergo rigorous drug testing to secure a rematch with Haney reflects his commitment to clearing his name. Meanwhile, Haney, holding a ‘champion in recess’ status granted by the WBC, could potentially return to the ring either for a title defense against the top-ranked Sandor Martin or pursue a title unification bout.
The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation as fans and analysts eagerly await the next developments in this high-stakes drama. Will Garcia’s plea to Alalshikh bear fruit? And how will Haney’s potential return reshape the landscape of the light welterweight division?
Editor’s Value:
This unfolding drama between Garcia and Haney highlights the broader dynamics of boxing politics and the influence of high-profile figures in shaping major fights. Garcia’s audacious plea for a rematch in Riyadh adds a new dimension to his comeback story, reflecting the intense personal and professional stakes involved.
