US Boxer arrested for LA hotel damage

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Boxer Ryan Garcia was arrested on Saturday for causing damage to a hotel in Beverly Hills, California, according to police reports.

The 25-year-old American was detained on suspicion of felony vandalism and later taken to a hospital.

Garcia, who last fought and won against Devin Haney on April 20, is facing a ban after testing positive for the banned substance ostarine in two separate tests before the bout.

Beverly Hills police responded to reports of an “intoxicated person” at the Waldorf Astoria.

“It was determined that Mr Garcia was a registered guest of the hotel and had caused damage to a guest room and the hallway of the hotel,” added the police.

“Hotel management requested the arrest of Mr Garcia for property damage.

“He was arrested and transported by the Beverly Hills Fire Department to a local hospital for medical care.”

In a statement to BBC Sport, Garcia’s lawyer Darin T. Chavez explained that Garcia “has been grappling with devastating news regarding his mother’s health.”

“Ryan has been open about his struggles with mental health over the years, and at this time he is dealing with an immense emotional burden,” added Chavez.

“The support and understanding from fans and the public are crucial as he navigates these personal challenges.”

Garcia has only one defeat in his 26-fight career, a 2023 loss to Gervonta Davis, and is considered one of the biggest stars in American boxing.