Sulaiman’s argument rests less on Garcia’s recent results than on his perceived ability. From the WBC’s perspective, Garcia remains capable of winning the fight, and sanctioning decisions should not be determined solely by a fighter’s most recent performance. Instead, Sulaiman pointed to Garcia’s broader career profile, maintaining that his overall track record still places him among the sport’s elite.
This reasoning did not silence criticism. Garcia’s last appearance ended in a clear decision loss to Rolando Romero in May, a fight Garcia entered as a substantial betting favorite before being let down early and losing every round on the scorecards. He has not competed since then and later underwent surgery on his right hand.
At welterweight, Garcia’s resume is limited. He has yet to record a win at 147 pounds and has never held a full world title. His only championship came as a WBC interim lightweight titleholder. His most significant recent result, a win over Devin Haney, was later overturned after Garcia tested positive for Ostarine, resulting in a one-year suspension and a $1.2 million fine from the New York State Athletic Commission.
Garcia also missed weight for that fight and was later arrested on a felony vandalism charge. Those incidents contributed to an 18-month ban from the WBC, which was lifted as part of the organization’s approval of the Barrios fight.
Sulaiman framed the decision as consistent with the WBC’s long-standing involvement in Garcia’s career, citing past concerns about his behavior and mental health, while emphasizing the organization’s willingness to provide continued support. He described the title event as a chance at redemption rather than a reward for recent performance.
Barrios enters the fight to a majority draw with 46-year-old Manny Pacquiao, a result the WBC cited as a precedent for unconventional endorsements.
The criticism did not change the result. The fight is progressing, and the WBC has made it clear that it is comfortable standing by the decision regardless of how it is received.
