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The Shocking Truth About Ryan Garcia’s Boxing Gloves: 5 Controversial Choices And Why They Matter

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The choice of boxing gloves for a professional fighter like Ryan Garcia is never just about padding; it’s a high-stakes decision scrutinized by opponents, fans, and commissions alike. As of December 2025, Garcia's gear selection has become a major talking point, evolving from the established dominance of one brand to a surprising, performance-driven switch that has fueled new speculation and controversy in the boxing world. This deep dive will uncover the exact brands and models "King Ry" has laced up for his biggest fights, explore the infamous "glove gate" scandals, and reveal the crucial differences between his fight-night and training equipment. The equipment a knockout artist uses is paramount, and for a star who has transitioned from Lightweight to Welterweight, every ounce of padding and leather matters. From his signature use of Grant gloves in his biggest pay-per-view events to a notable shift to Rival for his most recent bouts, Garcia’s glove history is a fascinating case study in professional boxing strategy and the pursuit of power.

Ryan Garcia: The King of Controversy and Knockouts (Biography)

Known by the moniker "King Ry," Ryan Garcia has quickly ascended to become one of the most polarizing and popular figures in modern boxing. His career is marked by blistering hand speed, highlight-reel knockouts, and a massive social media following.

  • Full Name: Ryan Garcia Anthony
  • Date of Birth: August 8, 1998
  • Age (as of Dec 2025): 27
  • Nationality: American (of Mexican descent)
  • Parents: Henry Garcia (Father/Former Trainer) and Lisa Garcia (Mother)
  • Hometown: Victorville, California, USA
  • Fighting Division: Welterweight (Formerly Lightweight and Super Lightweight)
  • Notable Titles: Former WBC Interim Lightweight Champion
  • Stance: Orthodox
  • Professional Record: Highly competitive, with a majority of wins coming by knockout.

The Evolution of "King Ry's" Fight Gloves: From Grant to Rival

For a fighter whose primary weapon is his speed and power, the selection of fight gloves is the most critical equipment decision. Unlike training gloves, fight gloves are strictly regulated in terms of weight (typically 8 oz or 10 oz, depending on the weight class) and padding distribution. Garcia has primarily relied on two high-end, elite brands for his biggest contests.

1. Grant: The Power Puncher's Choice (The Tank Davis Era)

For years, Grant has been Garcia's go-to brand for his most significant fights, placing him in the company of legends like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Canelo Alvarez. Grant gloves are renowned in the sport for their compact design and excellent knuckle protection, which is crucial for a fighter with fragile hands like Garcia.

  • Key Fight Use: The highly anticipated 2023 bout against Gervonta "Tank" Davis saw Garcia lace up custom Grant gloves.
  • Model & Weight: He used Grant 8 oz Pro Fight Gloves for the Tank Davis fight, which is the standard size for non-heavyweight championship bouts.
  • The Controversy: The use of Grant gloves in the Davis fight was a point of contention during the pre-fight negotiations, as both camps sought an advantage. Grant gloves are often preferred by knockout artists for their reputation of providing a "puncher's glove" feel, which some attribute to a denser, more focused padding that transfers impact efficiently.

2. Rival: The Strategic Switch (The Oscar Duarte Era)

In a surprising move that signaled a potential shift in his gear strategy, Garcia opted for a different brand for his comeback fight against Oscar Duarte. This switch was a major talking point among boxing enthusiasts.

  • Key Fight Use: The December 2023 fight against Oscar Duarte.
  • Brand Used: Reports from the boxing community confirmed Garcia used Rival boxing gloves, while Duarte used Everlast.
  • Why the Switch? Rival gloves, particularly their professional fight models, are known for their excellent wrist support and a more anatomical fit, which can be beneficial for fighters looking to mitigate hand injuries or seeking a different feel for their power shots. This change, coinciding with his work under new trainer Derrick James, suggests a strategic move to optimize his punching mechanics and hand safety.

The Infamous "Glove Gate" and Hand Wrap Scandals

No discussion of Ryan Garcia's gloves is complete without addressing the controversies that have plagued his biggest matchups. In elite boxing, any perceived advantage in equipment can trigger a storm of accusations, often dubbed "glove gate."

The Devin Haney "Glove Gate" Speculation

Leading up to and following his highly publicized clash with Devin Haney, rumors and conspiracy theories about Garcia's equipment circulated widely. While no official violations were proven, the intensity of the speculation highlights the deep suspicion that exists when a fighter with Garcia's knockout power steps into the ring. The core of these accusations often revolves around the hand wraps—the layer of gauze and tape beneath the glove—with opponents suggesting the wraps could be illegally hardened or applied to maximize impact, a practice distinct from the gloves themselves but inextricably linked to punching power.

The Importance of 8 oz vs. 10 oz Gloves

The weight of the glove is a major point of negotiation in contracts. The difference between 8 oz and 10 oz gloves is significant:

  • 8 oz Gloves: Typically used at 147 lbs (Welterweight) and below. These gloves are smaller, have less foam, and are considered "puncher's gloves" because they concentrate force more effectively, increasing the likelihood of a knockout. Garcia used 8 oz for his fight with Tank Davis.
  • 10 oz Gloves: Used in heavier divisions. The extra padding offers a marginal increase in protection for both the puncher and the recipient.

The ongoing debate over Garcia's glove choice is a testament to the belief that his equipment is a key component of his devastating power, making every detail of his fight gear a matter of intense public interest.

Ryan Garcia's Training Equipment: The Unsung Heroes

While the fight-night gloves get all the attention, Garcia's training gear is what protects his hands and allows him to maintain his speed and power throughout a grueling camp. His training choices reflect a focus on durability, protection, and a classic boxing feel.

Cleto Reyes: The Mexican Tradition

For heavy bag work, sparring, and mitt drills, Garcia has often been seen using Cleto Reyes gloves. Cleto Reyes is a legendary Mexican brand known for its high-quality, handcrafted leather and a reputation for being a true "puncher's glove" even in training models.

  • Key Characteristics: They offer a firm, dense padding that provides excellent feedback on impact, which is essential for a fighter honing his technique. Their snug fit and long-lasting durability make them a staple in professional gyms worldwide.
  • Weight: For training, Garcia uses heavier gloves, typically 14 oz or 16 oz, to build stamina and protect his hands during high-volume sessions.

Everlast and Other Brands

Garcia has also been associated with Everlast, one of the most recognizable names in boxing. While he may not use their fight gloves exclusively, he has signed Everlast memorabilia, indicating a relationship or past use of their equipment. Like many elite boxers, his training camp likely involves a rotation of gear, including high-quality hand wraps and other protective equipment, to ensure his hands are conditioned and protected from the thousands of punches he throws in preparation for a fight.

In conclusion, Ryan Garcia's boxing gloves are much more than just a piece of gear; they are a central part of his professional narrative. His strategic shifts between Grant and Rival for his most crucial fights, combined with the underlying controversies, demonstrate that in the world of championship boxing, every piece of equipment is a calculated move toward victory.

The Shocking Truth About Ryan Garcia’s Boxing Gloves: 5 Controversial Choices and Why They Matter
ryan garcia boxing gloves
ryan garcia boxing gloves

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