Boxing star Ryan Garcia was arrested for felony vandalism at the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills, California on Saturday. A video shows a man alleged to be Garcia being led out of the hotel in handcuffs. The boxing superstar reportedly caused over $15,000 in damage to his hotel room and the hallway before police intervened.
Garcia’s attorney, Darin Chavez, issued a statement to ESPN late Saturday night, noting that his client may also be charged with public intoxication. Chavez said that Garcia has been dealing with an immense emotional burden due to recent devastating news about his mother’s health. The boxer has been open about his struggles with mental health over the years and is currently receiving support from fans and the public as he navigates these personal challenges.
One of Garcia’s family members called a wellness check on him at the same hotel just four days prior to his arrest, according to TMZ Sports. In addition, the New York State Athletic Commission previously asked Garcia to undergo a mental health evaluation prior to his April fight with Devin Haney.
Garcia (25-1, 20 KOs) is coming off a non-title majority decision win against WBC super lightweight champion Devin Haney. However, the result of their fight is now in jeopardy after Garcia tested positive for a banned substance following their bout. It remains unclear what impact this will have on his future as a boxer or whether it will lead to any additional charges against him.
