A YouTube video featuring professional boxer Ryan Garcia turned into a medical emergency last Friday, January 16. The frightening incident unfolded on the channel of social media creator Zavala.
A Friendly Challenge Goes Wrong
During the recording, Garcia threw a powerful body punch that immediately left Zavala in serious pain. The video ended abruptly when someone called 911 for urgent medical assistance.
The moment happened after Zavala clearly agreed on camera to take a punch to his stomach. What began as a lighthearted challenge quickly became deeply concerning for everyone involved.
The Painful Aftermath
Viewers watched as Zavala struggled to stand up after the impact. He appeared sick and repeatedly asked for help while people around him rushed to check his condition.
The video shows Ryan Garcia wearing boxing gloves while Zavala stands shirtless against a wall. Zavala lifts his hands over his head and verbally consents to the challenge. Garcia then delivers a single punch directly to Zavala's stomach.
Immediately after the punch, Zavala collapses to the ground. He rolls on the floor crying out in obvious agony. Someone nearby can be heard asking if he's okay. Garcia steps closer with concern, asking if Zavala is hurt.
Escalating Medical Concerns
A short time later, Zavala manages to stand and walks slowly to a bathroom. Moments after, Garcia and another person open the door to check on him. Zavala tells them he cannot move properly.
One person declares that Zavala is badly injured. Garcia then observes that Zavala appears to be bleeding. The video cuts off as Ryan Garcia makes the emergency call to 911. No further medical update was provided in the video itself.
Background and Context
Earlier in the same recording, Zavala is seen training with Garcia while wearing protective gear. When it came time for the actual challenge, Zavala chose not to wear any protection at all.
The video was uploaded on January 16 and quickly spread across various social media platforms, generating widespread discussion and concern.
Ryan Garcia's Career
Ryan Garcia is 27 years old and was born in California, United States. He became one of boxing's most discussed fighters after winning the WBC interim lightweight title in 2021.
In 2024, Garcia received a one-year suspension after failing a drug test before a fight with Devin Haney. That same year, authorities arrested him in Beverly Hills, California, on a felony vandalism charge following a hotel incident.
Garcia returned to the ring in May 2025, fighting Rolly Romero. He lost that match on points. In December 2025, Garcia reportedly received an offer for a possible fight with Jake Paul, but he declined the opportunity.
The fight instead happened between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua, who won by knockout after six rounds. Ryan Garcia is now scheduled to fight Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title on February 21.
Personal Life
Outside the boxing ring, Garcia is the father of two children. He shares daughter Bela and son Henry with his former wife Andrea Celina.
