Ryan Garcia and Rukiya Anpo missed a Tokyo press conference for their Dec. 30 exhibition boxing match, with Anpo oversleeping and Garcia opting out, leading to tensions and verbal exchanges between the fighters, while RIZIN CEO assured that the fight will proceed despite logistical challenges.
Ryan Garcia’s antics, both before and after fights, have earned him quite the reputation. But his upcoming opponent might just outshine him this time.
Ahead of their Dec. 30 exhibition boxing bout at RIZIN’s year-end show, Garcia and Rukiya Anpo were supposed to attend a press conference in Tokyo. They had a fiery faceoff in Los Angeles back in November, but neither showed up for the Tokyo event.
RIZIN CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara and Fanmio CEO Solomon Engel were there, with Garcia calling in later via video. Anpo was expected to be present, but Sakakibara explained his absence.
“So I’m not too thrilled to make this my first statement,” Sakakibara said through a translator. “Anpo overslept and missed his flight.” Awkward much? Yet, it adds intrigue to the fight.
When Anpo finally called in, he voiced his frustration. He traveled all the way to L.A., only for Garcia to skip Tokyo. “I’m blown away that Ryan’s not here,” he said.
Engel wasn’t amused either. “Tell Anpo I flew from the U.S. for this press conference,” he remarked. “He should have been here.”
Anpo confessed he stayed in bed deliberately, feeling disrespected by Garcia’s no-show rumors. “I woke up pissed off, so I went back to sleep,” he admitted.
Despite the drama, Anpo promised to deliver come fight night. The verbal sparring continued when both fighters took media questions.
“It sucks that he’s B-side,” Garcia taunted. “You’re fighting a top superstar; enjoy the ride.” To which Anpo retorted, calling Garcia unprofessional and a “fake king.”
Garcia remained unapologetic about missing Tokyo, telling Anpo to know his place. “The show goes on because of me,” he stated confidently.
Garcia hasn’t fought since April against Devin Haney—a fight marred by controversy over weight issues and a failed drug test. His suspension only applies in the U.S., hence this bout in Tokyo.
Golden Boy Promotions’ Oscar De La Hoya hasn’t signed off on the fight yet, though no official announcement has been made. Sakakibara assured reporters that Garcia and Anpo will meet on Dec. 30.
“Don’t worry,” Sakakibara insisted. “This fight will happen.” Despite misunderstandings and moving parts, confidence remains high.
“We’re not bumping heads with anyone; the contract is signed,” Sakakibara added. For those doubting the event’s status—fear not!