Currently serving a one-year suspension imposed by the New York State Athletic Commission, Ryan Garcia will have to travel over 5,000 miles away from home to fight Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition boxing match. Meanwhile, the Japanese kickboxer, who visibly got the better of the boxing legend Manny Pacquiao in his last exhibition bout, eyes to make another statement in the boxing world by beating KingRy.

Set to be part of the RIZIN New Year’s Eve combat sports extravaganza, the Garcia vs. Anpo event will take place in Tokyo, Japan, on December 30, 2024. While the event’s marketing kicked off with a highly anticipated press conference, their exhibition bout continues to make headlines due to the unusual circumstances surrounding it.

Rukiya Anpo unleashes his fury on Ryan Garcia

Ryan Garcia wasted no time expressing his resentment towards Rukiya Anpo as soon as their fight was announced. Displeased by his attempt to beat an “aging“ Manny Pacquiao, the California native took to social media, citing: “Ight I’ve been quiet for some time but I’ve been cooking on some plans before my actual return to the ring.“

“Here is the plan before April. Exhibition in December in Japan against the guy who fought aging manny pac and tried to knock him out. And then go after [Jake Paul] for uncle Mike [Tyson],” concluded KingRy. Similarly, the Japanese kickboxer broke his silence by reciprocating with a scathing response to Garcia.

During their recent press conference, Anpo reminded the American boxer of his antics during the lead-up to the Devin Haney fight. Criticizing Garcia’s professionalism and sportsmanship, the Japanese kickboxing star said, “We all know Ryan Garcia’s issues: Missing weight, alcohol, and [complete] lack of professionalism, no sportsmanship, no respect. Yet he [gets to] call himself ‘King.’“

“On fight day, [I will] show him the true code of bushido [Meaning: The Way of the Warrior], [and] we fight for honor and legacy. I bring the real Japanese street and show him exactly where he belongs,“ the 29-year-old concluded his verbal assault with NSFW remarks, followed by a dramatic gesture of throwing a crumbled-up paper containing his speech at Garcia who was seated beside him.

The tension between the two fighters was palpable, and Garcia seemed unfazed by Anpo’s sudden outburst. Despite the intense exchange, both fighters are expected to put on a show in the upcoming exhibition match.

Special rules in place for exhibition bout

The upcoming fight between Ryan Garcia and Rukiya Anpo is an opportunity for both fighters to gain valuable experience and exposure. For KingRy, it is a chance to get back in the ring and shake off the rust amid his suspension. Meanwhile, for Anpo, it is an opportunity to test his skills against another high-profile opponent and make a name for himself in the boxing world.

However, the upcoming fight will be under special rules. According to reports, the exhibition match is scheduled for eight rounds, each lasting two minutes. Additionally, the outcome will not impact either fighter’s professional boxing record, as no official scoring will be conducted.

Despite the unusual circumstances surrounding the fight, both Ryan Garcia and Rukiya Anpo are expected to give it their all in what promises to be an exciting encounter. Are you excited for this special exhibition clash?