Ryan Garcia, a notable name in the boxing world, is set to return to the ring on December 30th for an exhibition match against Rukiya Anpo in Japan. This comes in the wake of a one-year suspension imposed by the New York State Athletic Commission due to a positive test for a performance-enhancing drug (PED). As Garcia navigates the challenges presented by his suspension, he opts for an exhibition bout, allowing him to remain active in the sport while generating income. This decision, however, has sparked criticism among fans who are becoming increasingly disenchanted by the trend of exhibition bouts.
The wariness surrounding Garcia’s upcoming fight is not unfounded. Fans are expressing their disappointment at the notion of paying to watch a renowned fighter take on a non-professional boxer in a mere three-round exhibition. The proliferation of exhibition matches in recent years has been met with skepticism, as many spectators feel that these bouts undermine the integrity of competitive boxing. For a sport that prides itself on its rigorous standards and thrilling competitions, the surge in exhibition matches seems to be diluting its essence. Garcia’s fans are concerned about the direction the sport is taking and are questioning the value of such events.
The Business of Boxing
Despite the backlash, Garcia’s exhibition holds a dual purpose. It provides him a platform to stay financially afloat de far of his suspension and to maintain a level of sharpness as he prepares for more serious bouts in the future. With an eye on potentially clashing with influencer Jake Paul in 2025, Garcia is keen to keep his name in the spotlight. Fighting Anpo, who previously engaged in an exhibition bout against Manny Pacquiao that ended controversially, could serve as a critical preparatory step for Garcia. However, it raises questions about the nature of competitive preparation and whether exhibitions can ever truly replicate the stakes of a genuine boxing match.
Potential Risks Ahead
Rukiya Anpo is not an opponent to be taken lightly. At just 29 years of age, he is considered a formidable puncher, presenting a greater challenge than Garcia’s last opponent, Devin Haney. Garcia must approach this bout with caution. The reality is that the risk of injury, even in a seemingly low-stakes exhibition, cannot be overlooked. Fans remember Anpo’s aggressive style against Pacquiao and may worry about Garcia’s readiness to face such intensity after a prolonged break from competitive action.
As the boxing landscape continues to evolve, Ryan Garcia’s exhibition fight against Rukiya Anpo is emblematic of the current state of the sport. Garcia’s attempts to balance commercial viability with athletic credence are commendable but fraught with complications. His move to engage in exhibitions reflects not only his personal ambition but also the growing trend of boxers seeking financial security through less traditional means. As fans anticipate his return, they are left wondering whether the future holds legitimate bouts or more exhibition events that blur the lines of sport and entertainment.