Ryan Garcia has set his sights on Jake Paul, vowing to end the social media star’s boxing career in what could become one of 2025’s most talked-about fights. During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Garcia explained his motivations, calling out Paul for “trying to beat up” boxing legend Mike Tyson in a recent match.

Garcia, 26, likened the potential fight to his upcoming Dec. 30 exhibition against Rukiya Anpo in Tokyo. Anpo’s controversial July bout against Manny Pacquiao spurred Garcia’s interest in avenging the Filipino icon. Similarly, Garcia views taking on Paul, who fought Tyson in an exhibition, as an opportunity to restore order in boxing.

“I kind of gave birth to his boxing career,” Garcia said, recalling Paul’s early training visits to his gym. “So I’m here to end it.”

Fighting Against the Odds

While Garcia’s professional career has been on hold due to a suspension for testing positive for the banned substance ostarine, he remains eager to take on Paul, even at a weight disadvantage. Garcia, typically fighting at 140-147 pounds, is willing to face Paul at 185 pounds. He cited his skill advantage as a critical factor, claiming, “I genuinely believe I would knock him out within four or five rounds.”

Paul’s recent match against Tyson drew over 65 million viewers, highlighting the massive commercial appeal of celebrity boxing. Garcia believes a fight between him and Paul would generate similar excitement, adding, “Everywhere I go, people are asking me to fight Jake Paul. I’ve got to give the people what they want.”

Redemption and Reflection

Garcia’s year-long suspension, stemming from his fight with Devin Haney, has been a period of personal transformation. After erratic behavior, substance use, and a public meltdown, Garcia sought rehabilitation, crediting it for saving him from “destruction.” Now focused and grounded, Garcia aims to return to the ring stronger than ever.

Despite his suspension, Garcia continues to set his sights high. Beyond Jake Paul, he’s eyeing marquee fights with Teofimo Lopez, Gervonta “Tank” Davis, and even a rematch with Haney, who is suing Garcia for breach of contract following the doping scandal.

A New Chapter

While Garcia has faced criticism and challenges, his readiness to face opponents of varying calibers — from Jake Paul to welterweight champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis — signals a renewed drive. For fans, the prospect of a Garcia-Paul showdown represents more than a clash of styles; it’s a collision of boxing worlds, combining celebrity spectacle with athletic prowess.

As Garcia looks to rebuild his career, his goal remains clear: deliver thrilling fights and prove his critics wrong. Whether Jake Paul is the right opponent to mark his return remains to be seen, but Garcia’s willingness to step into the ring shows he’s ready to embrace the chaos and reclaim his narrative.