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via Getty

via Getty

Ryan Garcia’s recent act stirred the pot. The professional boxer, known for his punches, switched to generosity. At a shoe store, he turned Santa, gifting footwear to all present. Yet, this act drew mixed reactions, puzzling many. Isn’t kindness commendable? Garcia, preparing for a headline fight against Devin Haney on April 20 at Barclays Center, found himself defending his intentions.

The twist? He claimed the video was a one-time thing, prompted by the store. Is he often doing these charitable acts without the cameras around him?

Beneath the backlash, Ryan Garcia stands straight

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Ryan Garcia’s gesture of buying shoes for everyone in a store sparked widespread conversation. “It hurts my heart when people say I gave free shoes for the people for clout or for me to gain praise,” Garcia tweeted. “I do this stuff all the time, I decided to record once because the store wanted to do a video. So I decided to record and make a video out of it myself, I’m genuinely sad.”

This act of kindness, however, is not out of character for Garcia. Recently, he also made headlines by promising a female fan a ticket to his eagerly anticipated match against Devin Haney on April 20. Seamlessly, Garcia’s actions on and off the ring reflect his commitment to giving back, stirring admiration and skepticism alike.

From tweet to seat

A simple tweet from a fan longing for tickets on her birthday caught Ryan Garcia’s attention. “Where’s my fav @RyanGarcia?? It’s my bday I would appreciate some tickets to your fight,” she reached out, hoping against odds. Garcia, in the thick of training for his pivotal April 20 clash with Devin Haney, paused to bridge the gap between fan and fighter. “If you can make it you got it,” he assured, transforming her wish into a promise with a few taps on his keyboard.

The fan’s response, “OH IM THERE champ,” echoed her elation and surprise. This exchange wasn’t just about tickets; it was a testament to Garcia’s character, connecting with fans in meaningful, unforgettable ways.

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Also Read: Prominent Boxing Figure Explains Business Side of Ryan Garcia vs. Devin Haney Shifting to NYC

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In an era where every action is magnified and judged, can acts of kindness truly be taken at face value, or will skepticism always cloud the intention behind them? How do we choose to perceive and respond to the acts of giving in the public eye?

Read More: “All That Skill and No Power”: Devin Haney Working the Heavy Bag in Recent Clip Fails to Impress Fans