British boxer Sandy Ryan was doused in red paint just hours before facing Michaela Mayer for the WBO welterweight title.
Matchroom Boxing posted on X that Ryan was hit by a paint can on his way to the MSG theater on Friday night.
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England's Sandy Ryan (right) punches Michaela Mayer during a women's WBO welterweight title boxing match on Saturday, September 28, 2024 in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
“When we left the hotel to go to the arena, someone threw a can of paint at Sandy Ryan. He literally ran out of the hotel. I'm sure it was a member of the opposing team, I don't know. , threw a can of paint.'' She had to go change clothes. It wasn’t a good start,” an employee at the match venue said in the video.
Ryan continued to fight Mayer, but lost the match by unanimous decision. Ryan said in a statement that he knew he shouldn't have gotten into the ring.
“I'm still trying to come to terms with what happened last night,” Ryan said in a statement. “I know I shouldn't have fought when I was attacked just outside my hotel, but I can't let them win like that. ” he said. “Even though I was fighting on empty, I still felt like I had won the battle.
“We have obtained surveillance cameras and are in contact with the NYPD. It is clear what happened and the truth will be released soon. You tried to ruin my career, but I believe I hope you do, it's just the beginning.”
Mikaela Mayer (left) waves after her women's WBO welterweight boxing title match against England's Sandy Ryan (center) on Saturday, September 28, 2024 in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
Michaela Mayer, left, punches Sandy Ryan during a game Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
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ryan and her team told ESPN They believe someone on Mr. Mayer's team is responsible for the incident.
“Michaela Meyer will understand that,” Ryan said. “It was definitely a setup by her team. What else could it be?”
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Mr. Mayer denied the accusations.
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