Ryan Garcia’s New YouTube Series
There’s a brand new boxing show featuring a knockout cast with star Ryan “Kingry” Garcia leading the pack. Billed as “On the Ropes,” this Brat series is already making a splash especially with the “Gen-Z” demographic. With the unbeaten pro fighter joining the world of acting, “On the Ropes” looks to be a KO hit.
I caught up with one of the featured actors on this digital media show that airs Mondays at 3PM. Mariah Wesley, just 19 years old, plays Maria, a fixture in the boxing gym that’s an integral part of the plot in this latest Brat series (the network has almost three million subscribers). “On the Ropes” premiered on February 25 and the inaugural season boasts eight episodes. Each episode is approximately 15 minutes long and tells the story of Sonny Mendoza (played by Garcia) who is forced to turn to the world of underground boxing to survive and have a chance at a better life.
While in the gym, he meets Maria, a street savvy, spunky young beauty who’s clearly graduated from the “School of Hard Knocks.” Garcia and Wesley are showcased in this original series along with Bella Shepard, Ava Jules, Ryan’s younger brother Sean Garcia and more.
To date, three episodes have aired as the shows fan base continues to grow. The first episode has already garnered half a million views. I’ve watched all of the current episodes and it’s a fun show for the teenagers and pre-teens it’s primarily aimed at. Ryan, 20, has a huge social media following and the Golden Boy champ continues his ascent as a prizefighter, actor, model and rapper. The undefeated puncher (17-0, 14 KOs) will be lacing up again March 30 at Fantasy Springs Casino.
While Mariah is not a professional boxer, she is definitely a knockout–and a triple-threat talent. The Tracy, California performer is an actress/singer
/dancer who started acting as a little girl. I first met her and her mom Shawna Wesley-Roza years ago at the gym. Wesley-Roza has also been involved in show biz and is a best-selling author (Melanie Shawn) and popular fitness instructor.
Mariah may still be a teenager, but she’s wise beyond her years. Hard working, smart, witty and comfortable in her own skin, the Los Angeles actress is focused on the target and looking forward to exciting projects in the future. She and Garcia are alike in the sense that they both have that “X Factor,” that star quality and charisma that can’t be taught or bought. I first met Ryan when he was eight years old and even then, it was obvious the kid was gonna make it. Mariah has that exact same aura about her; I first met her when she was around 12-13 years old and she was a rising star even as an adolescent. “Mya” was even choreographing dance routines for others at that young age! She’s grown into a thoughtful young lady who has set her sights high and wants to make a difference by helping at-risk youth.
I asked her about working with Ryan (and what surprised her the most about him), how the sport of boxing has influenced her and who her role models are. Hear what the SoCal stunner has to say!
Michele Chong: Congrats on your new series! What’s been the reaction after the first episode aired?
Mariah Wesley: The support has been great! Everyone seems really excited to dive into the boxing world.
MC: Before this show, were you a big fan of boxing?
MW: Yes. I love going to fight nights with my dad and his friends.
MC: Had you seen Ryan Garcia fight live in person or on video?
MW: No. But once I did I was impressed.
MC: Describe the relationship between your character Maria and Ryan’s character Sonny?
MW: (She teases) You’re gonna have to watch to find out.
MC: Off camera, what surprised you most about Ryan?
MW: He’s goofy and he likes anime. Two things I can stand behind.
MC: The camaraderie and chemistry between the whole cast makes the show fun to watch. Will there be a Season 2?
MW: I hope so. There’s a lot more story to be told, drama to be had, and tea to be spilt.
MC: You’ve been acting since you were very young but I heard you’re also interested in starting your own nonprofit in the future?
MW: Yes. Specifically, I’ve been working with my friend who’s involved in local politics to start a city funded dance studio for underserved youth.
MC: With three strong female characters in “On the Ropes,” who was your own role model growing up? And what words of wisdom do you have for little girls and teens who look up to you?
MW: I’ve always looked up to Beyoncé for her work ethic, her drive, and for redefining the cultural norms of what beauty was for me growing up. As far as words of wisdom I would say own your power; it’s within you, don’t relinquish it to anyone. Own your beauty; don’t let anyone else define what beauty is for you. Own your voice; don’t let the world silence you and make you believe there’s not enough weight in your words. Own your mind; don’t surrender your freedom of thought, understand the value of your opinions, your dreams, and your convictions.
MC: Thanks again. Can’t wait to see the new episodes!
MW: Thanks!
Brat episodes: