Ryan Garcia fined $5,000 days before WBC title fight: Here’s what really happened
Ryan Garcia. Image Source: Getty Images
Ryan Garcia has been fined $5,000 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) after failing to meet a mandatory pre-fight weight check deadline just days before his welterweight title clash against Mario Barrios.
The fine comes ahead of Garcia’s highly anticipated February 21 showdown at the T-Mobile Arena, where Barrios will defend his WBC welterweight championship.
The incident marks another tense chapter in Garcia’s turbulent relationship with boxing’s governing bodies, particularly the WBC.
WBC Imposes Fine for Missed 14-Day Weight Check
Under WBC safety regulations, fighters must submit video proof showing they are within five percent of the contracted weight limit 14 days before a title bout.
Garcia was required to prove he weighed no more than five percent above 147 pounds by February 7. According to correspondence from WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, Garcia failed to submit the required video evidence by the deadline. Barrios, by contrast, complied with the regulation.
As a result, the WBC issued a $5,000 fine for non-compliance and warned that further action, including notifying the boxing commission, could follow if the footage was not provided promptly.
Garcia ultimately avoided additional penalties after submitting proof that he was within the permitted weight range. A second weight check is scheduled, requiring both fighters to be within three percent of the limit.
Garcia’s Complicated History With the WBC
Garcia’s relationship with the WBC fractured in July 2024 when he was expelled following the use of racial slurs and controversial comments during a social media livestream. The disciplinary action removed him from WBC rankings.
However, the sanctioning body later reinstated Garcia and approved him as the mandatory challenger for Barrios’ welterweight title, signaling a repaired, albeit fragile, relationship.
This latest fine, though minor financially, adds scrutiny ahead of a critical fight in Garcia’s career.
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Weight Concerns Resurface After Past Controversies
There is heightened attention surrounding Garcia’s weight management due to previous issues.
Before his scheduled WBC super lightweight title fight against Devin Haney in 2024 at the Barclays Center, Garcia missed weight by 3.2 pounds. As a result, the title was no longer on the line.
Garcia won the bout in the ring, but the victory was later overturned to a no-contest after he tested positive for ostarine. He was subsequently suspended for one year and forfeited his $1.1 million purse.
Those events have intensified oversight surrounding his current title opportunity.
A Crucial Fight Against Mario Barrios
Barrios enters the February 21 bout following consecutive draws, a split draw against Abel Ramos and a majority draw against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.
Garcia, meanwhile, is seeking redemption after losing to Rolando Romero in 2025 for the vacant WBA (Regular) welterweight title.
The upcoming fight represents Garcia’s first major opportunity in 2026 to reestablish himself as an elite contender at 147 pounds.
What’s at Stake for Ryan Garcia?
For Garcia, the stakes extend beyond a championship belt. The 27-year-old must prove discipline, professionalism, and consistency inside and outside the ring.
While the $5,000 fine is relatively minor compared to previous penalties, any additional missteps could jeopardize his comeback narrative.
With another mandatory check looming, attention remains firmly fixed on whether “KingRy” can deliver both on the scales and in the ring.
FAQ
Why was Ryan Garcia fined $5,000?
Ryan Garcia was fined for failing to submit required video proof of his weight within the WBC’s 14-day mandatory safety deadline ahead of his title fight.
Did Ryan Garcia miss weight for the Mario Barrios fight?
No. He missed the deadline to submit proof but later provided confirmation that he was within the required weight range.
What is the WBC 14-day weight rule?
The rule requires fighters to be within five percent of the contracted weight limit 14 days before a title fight and provide video evidence.
When is Ryan Garcia fighting Mario Barrios?
The fight is scheduled for February 21 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Has Ryan Garcia had weight issues before?
Yes. Garcia missed weight ahead of his 2024 fight with Devin Haney, which later became a no-contest due to a failed drug test.
What happens if a boxer fails a weight check?
Sanctions can include fines, public reprimands, or further disciplinary action depending on the severity of the violation.
What is at stake in the Garcia vs Barrios fight?
The WBC welterweight championship is on the line, along with Garcia’s reputation and potential career resurgence.