Ryan Garcia’s upset win over Devin Haney last month sent shockwaves through the sporting world and looked set to see the Californian’s star rise even further.
However, less than two weeks later, Garcia has been sent crashing back to earth following reports of a positive anti-doping test.
Here’s what we know:
Ryan Garcia ostarine: Boxer returns positive anti-doping test
On Wednesday evening, journalist Dan Rafael reported that the 25-year-old had returned two positive tests for the banned substance ostarine.
Rafael revealed the hard-hitting southpaw’s urine tests from before and after the April 20 fight with Haney both came back positive for the substance.
BREAKING: Per multiple sources with knowledge of the results, Ryan Garcia tested positive for the banned PED Ostarine in a VADA test related to the Haney fight. #boxing
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) May 2, 2024
Ryan Garcia has 10 days to ask for B sample to be tested at his own expense. So, not only blows weight by 3.2 pounds he also apparently was dirty for a PED and possible two. #boxing
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) May 2, 2024
What is Ostarine?
Ostarine is a banned Performance Enhancing Drug, which is used by athletes to increase strength and muscle growth.
Classed as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), it binds to the body’s androgen receptors and stimulates muscle growth, making it commonly used by body-builders via dietary supplements.
While it operates in a similar fashion, SARM’s such as Ostarine are not steroids, as they target specific parts of the human body, whereas steroids affect the entire body.
The drug is not FDA approved, meaning it is unsuitable for human consumption, and its use by athletes is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
