Following my recent post about Ryan Garcia’s suspension and exhibition match controversy, I thought we’d take a closer look at the fight itself. With Garcia scheduled to face Japanese kickboxing star Rukiya Anpo in an exhibition bout this December, the matchup raises plenty of questions—not just about the fight, but about Garcia’s decision to step into the ring so close to the end of his suspension.
Why Not Wait Until 2025?
Ryan Garcia’s suspension, believed to stem from ongoing contractual and promotional issues, has sidelined him from professional boxing until April 2025. With just a few months left, the timing of this exhibition raises an obvious question: why not wait?
Garcia’s decision to fight now, rather than focusing on his professional return, risks overshadowing what could have been a fresh start. By choosing to fight in an exhibition, Garcia exposes himself to further criticism, particularly from those who feel this approach undermines the integrity of the sport. For someone of Garcia’s calibre, biding his time and staging a high-profile professional comeback would arguably be a more strategic move, both for his career and his reputation.
On the flip side, staying inactive for too long risks fading from public memory, especially in a sport that thrives on momentum. Garcia’s decision to fight Anpo reflects a desire to stay visible, but whether it’s worth the potential fallout remains to be seen.
Why Rukiya Anpo?
Rukiya Anpo, a decorated kickboxer transitioning to boxing, offers Garcia a unique but calculated challenge. Anpo’s explosive style and unpredictable movement make him a compelling opponent, but his lack of boxing experience also ensures Garcia is the heavy favourite.
The choice of Anpo as an opponent brings international appeal, particularly given Anpo’s popularity in Japan. For Garcia, it’s an opportunity to showcase his skill set against an unconventional fighter while avoiding the risks associated with facing an experienced boxer.
However, this matchup also fuels scepticism. Critics argue that Garcia’s focus should be on professional-level opponents, especially given his suspension. For fans hoping to see Garcia rebuild his credibility, facing a kickboxer in an exhibition might not feel like the right move.
A Fight for Relevance or Redemption?
For Garcia, this fight is about more than just staying active—it’s about proving he can weather the storm of controversy and still deliver in the ring. While exhibitions may lack the stakes of professional bouts, they still offer a platform to showcase skill and draw attention.
But this comes with risks. If Garcia’s performance fails to impress, or if the fight is seen as purely for entertainment, it could damage his reputation further. For someone who has faced significant scrutiny over the past year, this is a gamble with high stakes.
Meanwhile, Anpo stands to gain significantly from this matchup. Even if he doesn’t win, a strong performance could elevate his profile and open doors in the boxing world. For him, the fight is an opportunity to prove he can compete at the highest level, even in a new discipline.
The Bigger Picture: Is the Sport at Risk?
Boxing has long grappled with the balance between sport and spectacle, and exhibition fights often blur those lines. For Garcia, participating in such a fight during his suspension raises questions about the consequences of these events for the sport’s integrity.
Allowing suspended fighters to earn through exhibitions can undermine the penalties imposed by governing bodies, creating a perception of loopholes. For a sport already criticised for its inconsistencies, this dynamic doesn’t help.
Garcia’s involvement in these events risks painting him as a fighter willing to exploit the system rather than face the repercussions of his actions. For someone once seen as the future of boxing, this narrative could have long-term implications.
Conclusion: Is the Fight Worth It?
With just a few months left on his suspension, Garcia’s decision to fight Anpo is a gamble. While it keeps his name in the spotlight and offers a chance to stay active, it also risks further criticism and controversy.
Would it have been better for Garcia to wait until April 2025 and stage a professional comeback? Possibly. This fight raises questions about whether he’s prioritising his long-term career or short-term gain.
For fans, Garcia vs Anpo offers intrigue—a mix of opportunity, risk, and spectacle. But for Garcia, the consequences of this decision may only become clear after the final bell. Whether it proves to be a smart move or another misstep, one thing is certain: all eyes will be on him when he steps into the ring with Anpo.