It was an ending no one anticipated—and perhaps no one wanted. Yet, it happened, casting a shadow over the sport of boxing. As we approach April 20, it will mark one year since the dramatic clash between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney at New York’s Barclays Center. On fight night, Garcia emerged victorious by a majority decision. However, his triumph was short-lived.

Failing the VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) doping tests led to severe consequences: a year-long suspension, hefty fines, and the reversal of his victory. The fallout subjected Garcia to months of public scrutiny and embarrassment. Despite the controversy, both fighters are working toward potential comebacks. Although still under suspension, Garcia had plans for an exhibition bout, now delayed due to a wrist injury. Meanwhile, rumors suggest Devin Haney could return to the ring as early as March. Talks of a rematch have surfaced, but the possibility remains uncertain due to the growing divide between the two camps.

Tensions Behind the Scenes

Hints of discord followed an innocuous comment made by David Benavidez. The WBC interim light heavyweight champion is slated for an epic clash against David Morrell on February 1. The lead-up to the showdown witnessed some dramatic scenes with both the fighters going at each other.

Talking about inconsistent drug testing in boxing, particularly in relation to VADA tests, he raised questions about David Morrell allegedly not submitting himself to VADA testing during training camps or after fights. Nevertheless, Benavidez expressed confidence in drubbing his opponent, “Even if he’s on steroids, I’ll beat the sh-t out of him.”

But the post drew a sharp retort from Ryan Garcia. In a post, he expressed skepticism over the emphasis placed on VADA testing, suggesting that its proponents might have ulterior motives. “It’s getting really strange why it’s always VADA, VADA. Can we get some other organizations to test?” he said.

Ryan Garcia makes it clear

Garcia’s comments drew sharp criticism online. One user commented, “Ryan. Leave this one to my friend. The clean athletes will discuss amongst themselves.” It didn’t take much time before the post received a reply from KingRy. “F–k on outta here, buddy; I will always state my innocence. I’m clean, but that organization I will never use again,” responded Ryan Garcia.

Not if that wasn’t enough to rock the boat; one could as well hear what Devin Haney said. While interacting with the media during the London media workout, he responded to the query about ‘KingRy’s exhibition against Rukiya Anpo. Haney suggested that his former opponent should commit to year-round random drug testing through the VADA before returning to professional competition. “I think he should sign up for the 24/7 VADA program show that he’s a clean athlete and then get back to boxing,” said the ‘Champion in recess.’

So, is it kaput with the Ryan Garcia rematch? On one hand, Devin Haney seems to retain some hope, “Of course, well, not next, obviously, because I’m coming back in March, but it’s definitely, you know, possible for 2025.” But then the caveat wasn’t too far. “If he’s clean, yeah. We want an even playing ground. I think that’s important,” he said during an interview with iFL TV.

What about you? Do you think too much water has flown, and the Garcia-Haney rematch might as well be a thing of the past?