Ryan Garcia took to social media to stir up controversy over Terence Crawford’s latest fight, claiming this Saturday’s fight is off.
The Golden Boy star, who is suspended from boxing until April 2025 for failing a drug test, made the shocking statement on Thursday evening. Garcia told his one million Twitter followers, “[I’ve] Heard [the] Crawford fight is canceled.”
Garcia was met with resistance from fight fans as some told Garcia to take a break from social media. World Boxing News understands the ongoing fight and has lead writer Alan Dawson on the ground in Los Angeles.
Crawford faces Israil Madrimov for the WBA and WBO super welterweight titles this weekend at the nearly sold out BMO Stadium. Both fighters discussed the bout during fight week as anticipation increased for the Riyadh Season clash.
“I feel good, I’m feeling great. I’m ready to fight, but all my people always try to remind me to enjoy the moment because one day it’s all going to be gone, so embrace it while you can,” said Crawford.
“Like I always say, everything happens for a reason, and for that reason, God didn’t bless me then, but he blessed me now when I’m more mature and can handle everything that comes my way. Who knows where I would have been had I got everything I wanted when he was immature and younger.”
Madrimov stated, “I’ve been waiting a long time for this moment. We are here and waiting for Saturday, when I want a victory. I liked this moment; it was the first time in my life, and I only imagined something like this would happen to me.
“Our training has been good. I’m feeling great. I want to make a good game plan. It will be a great fight on Saturday.”
Additionally, on Crawford’s weight increase, Madrimov added, “I don’t think this fight is about size. It’s about the experience and knowledge he can use. This division is my division, and I’m the champion. I have to defend the belt.”
Regarding Garcia, the 25-year-old is back in the United States after traveling to Japan for Manny Pacquiao’s exhibition. Garcia called out the Filipino legend for a potential exhibition. However, WBN understands that Garcia wouldn’t be allowed to compete in combat sports during his ban.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
