LAS VEGAS, 15 February 2026 – American boxing star Ryan Garcia is once again making headlines for his activities outside the ring as he prepares for a high-stakes return to the squared circle. Just days away from his scheduled bout against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, “King Ry” has been hit with a financial penalty by the World Boxing Council (WBC) for a procedural lapse.
Latest Updates: Weight Check Controversy
As of 14 February 2026, Ryan Garcia has been fined A$7,600 (US$5,000) by the WBC after missing the mandatory 14-day weight check deadline. While the issue has reportedly been resolved and Garcia has since enrolled in VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) testing, the fine adds another layer of drama to his upcoming title challenge.
Garcia is set to headline “The Ring: High Stakes” fight card on 21 February 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. He will challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title, marking a significant jump in weight class as he seeks to redeem himself following a difficult 2025 campaign.
Career Background and Stats
Ryan Garcia rose to prominence as a social media sensation with lightning-fast hand speed. Before turning professional, he amassed an incredible amateur record, winning 15 national championships. Since his pro debut in 2016, he has become one of the most recognisable faces in the sport, despite recent setbacks against top-tier opposition.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ryan Garcia |
| Alias | King Ry / The Flash |
| Date of Birth | 8 August 1998 |
| Age | 27 |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5′ 8½″ (174 cm) |
| Reach | 70″ (178 cm) |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Pro Record | 24-2-0 (as of May 2025) |
| Amateur Record | 215 wins, 15 losses |
Recent Form and Road to Barrios
The upcoming fight against Mario Barrios is viewed as a “must-win” for Garcia’s credibility as an elite contender. In May 2025, Garcia suffered a shocking unanimous decision loss to Rolando “Rolly” Romero in Times Square, New York. Critics described the performance as “lacklustre,” noting that Garcia appeared out of rhythm throughout the contest.
Prior to the Romero loss, Garcia’s most notable professional defeat came in April 2022, when he was stopped in the seventh round by Gervonta “Tank” Davis. Despite these losses, Garcia remains a massive draw, recently engaging in social media sparring with Shakur Stevenson and Teofimo Lopez, keeping his name at the centre of boxing discourse.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Ryan Garcia’s next fight?
Ryan Garcia is scheduled to fight Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title on 21 February 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Why was Ryan Garcia fined recently?
He was fined A$7,600 (US$5,000) by the WBC for missing the 14-day weight check deadline required ahead of his title fight. The fine was issued on 14 February 2026.
What is Ryan Garcia’s professional boxing record?
Following his loss to Rolando Romero in May 2025, Garcia’s professional record stands at 24 wins and 2 losses.
Has Ryan Garcia ever been a world champion?
While he has held the WBC interim lightweight title, his upcoming bout against Mario Barrios represents a major opportunity to claim a full world championship in the welterweight division.