The boxing world is buzzing about Ryan Garcia’s return in 2025. After serving a suspension following a failed drug test, Garcia is set to make his comeback with an exhibition fight in Dubai against Jaber Zayani. However, his decision to fight before his suspension officially ends has raised eyebrows.
Is this a smart strategy to stay active or just another controversial move? With so much uncertainty surrounding Ryan Garcia’s return in 2025, let’s take a closer look at what this fight means for his career.
Ryan Garcia’s Suspension and Comeback Fight in Dubai
Ryan Garcia’s last official fight ended in controversy when his win over Devin Haney was overturned due to a positive test for Ostarine, a banned performance-enhancing drug. As a result, he was suspended until April 2025.
Despite this, Garcia is set to face Jaber Zayani in Dubai this January. The fight is being classified as an exhibition match, meaning it won’t count on his official record. While some fans see this as a smart way for Garcia to stay active before his return in 2025, others believe it exploits a loophole to compete before his suspension ends.
Read about Ryan Garcia’s suspension on ESPN
Why Jaber Zayani? Why Dubai?
Jaber Zayani is an undefeated French boxer with a solid record but little global recognition. Fighting a big name like Ryan Garcia—even in an exhibition match—gives him a golden opportunity to raise his profile.
Dubai has become a hotspot for high-profile exhibition fights due to its more relaxed boxing regulations. Fighters often use it as a venue to compete while under suspension or after long layoffs.
More on Dubai’s boxing scene on DAZN
Can Ryan Garcia’s Return in 2025 Restore His Reputation?
Garcia’s career has been filled with highs and lows. While he’s an undeniable talent, his social media antics, mental health breaks, and now a suspension have raised concerns about his long-term commitment to boxing.
Challenges Garcia Faces in 2025
- Suspension Still in Place – Until April, this fight in Dubai is all he has.
- Public Perception – Will fans and promoters trust him again?
- Competition – Can he still hang with the best in the lightweight division?
Check out The Ring Magazine’s take on Garcia’s future
What Comes Next After Dubai?
Once Ryan Garcia’s return in 2025 becomes official in April, what’s next?
- Will he fight top contenders immediately or take more warm-up fights?
- Is a rematch with Devin Haney on the horizon?
- Will this Dubai exhibition fight help or hurt his credibility?
To truly reclaim his status, Garcia needs to face serious competition and prove he’s still an elite fighter.
Read more about a possible Garcia-Haney rematch on Boxing Scene
Join the Debate: What Do You Think?
Is Ryan Garcia’s return in 2025 a genuine comeback or just another distraction? Will he prove himself, or is his best boxing already behind him?
Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s get the discussion going. Also, share this post with fellow boxing fans and let us know your take.
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