Former UFC welterweight Alex “The Dominican Nightmare” Garcia was arrested on 8 December 2025 during a major drug raid in Montreal, Quebec. The operation, led by the province’s Anti-Gang Unit, resulted in the seizure of over 100 kilograms of cocaine valued at more than $2.3 million, alongside firearms, cash, and other narcotics.
Garcia, 39, was taken into custody alongside two other men and faces serious charges of drug trafficking and conspiracy. The arrests mark a dramatic fall from grace for the fighter, who competed in the UFC from 2014 to 2020 before his retirement from mixed martial arts.
The Raid: A Major Blow to an Alleged Drug Network
The coordinated police raids targeted an alleged drug supply route operating between Toronto and Montreal. According to authorities, cocaine was being sourced in Toronto and distributed in Montreal at inflated street prices.
Beyond the massive haul of cocaine, police also seized a significant quantity of GHB (a depressant also known as a “date rape” drug), heroin, and firearms. The operation was the culmination of an investigation that began in July 2025 into the activities of a Montreal-based network. Two accomplices allegedly connected to the operation remain at large as the investigation continues.
Charges and Co-Defendants
Garcia, whose legal name is Lenin Billy Garcia Ciriaco, faces charges including trafficking and conspiracy to traffic cocaine. He is not accused of being the network’s leader, but rather of playing a significant role in its operations.
His co-accused include:
- Victor Julio Sanchez Medrano: Charged with drug trafficking and related financial crimes.
- Michele Laddaga: Faces the most severe charges related to narcotics trafficking and possession for the purpose of trafficking.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in combatting organized crime networks involved in the cross-province drug trade.
Garcia’s Fighting Career: From UFC Prospect to Retirement
Alex Garcia made his UFC debut in 2014 with a reputation as a powerful athlete, compiling a professional MMA record of 17-6. Known for his wrestling and heavy hands, his most notable UFC victory was a 43-second knockout of Mike Swick. However, his career was inconsistent; after a promising start, he suffered a series of losses and was released from the UFC in 2020 following three consecutive defeats.
Following his UFC exit, Garcia fought twice for the Russian-based Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA) promotion in 2021, losing both bouts. He has not competed in professional MMA since, effectively retiring from the sport. His post-fighting life had remained largely out of the public eye until this arrest.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Alex Garcia’s UFC record?
Alex Garcia competed in the UFC from 2014 to 2020, compiling a promotional record of 5 wins and 5 losses. His overall professional MMA record is 17-6.
What specific drugs were seized in the raid?
Police seized over 100 kilograms of cocaine, along with quantities of GHB and heroin. Firearms and cash were also confiscated.
Is Alex Garcia considered the leader of the alleged drug network?
Based on initial reports and charges, Garcia is not alleged to be the network’s leader. He is charged with trafficking and conspiracy, indicating a significant operational role within the group.
What happens next in the legal case?
The accused will proceed through the Quebec court system. The investigation remains active as police continue to search for two alleged accomplices who are still at large.
When did Alex Garcia last fight professionally?
Garcia’s last professional MMA fight was a loss for the ACA promotion in September 2021. He has been inactive in combat sports since.
