Ryan Garcia’s dominant victory over Mario Barrios to capture the WBC welterweight title has reignited blockbuster talk in boxing. But while “King Ry” wasted no time calling out Shakur Stevenson for a potential super fight, Terence Crawford isn’t convinced that would end well for the new champion.
Garcia secured a clear unanimous decision over Barrios, showcasing improved discipline and composure en route to becoming a world champion at 147 pounds. The performance drew attention across the boxing landscape – including from Crawford, who offered a blunt preview of how a Stevenson vs. Garcia matchup could unfold.
I think [Stevenson] wipes the floor with him, I don’t think Ryan is going to be able to hit Shakur like Barrios.
Crawford elaborated on the stylistic differences, suggesting Garcia benefited from facing an opponent who lacked speed and tactical sharpness.
Barrios was right there to be hit, Barrios was too slow, Barrios didn’t have no game plan, Shakur is not going to be that fighter to be hit on. It’s simple.
The warning was clear: Stevenson’s defensive mastery and ring IQ present a far more complex challenge than what Garcia faced on Saturday night.
Shakur Stevenson sets condition as Devin Haney reacts
Stevenson, who fights at 140 pounds, appeared open to the fight – but under one critical condition.
“VADA will be involved,” Stevenson stated, referencing year-round anti-doping testing requirements.
The comment carried weight given Garcia’s previous no-contest result against Devin Haney, which was overturned after Garcia tested positive for a banned substance. The potential matchup would likely require a catchweight agreement, as Garcia now campaigns at welterweight while Stevenson holds a title at super lightweight.
Interestingly, Stevenson noted that a championship belt wouldn’t necessarily be required to sell the fight, citing the pair’s star power and global fan bases.
Meanwhile, Devin Haney – who originally suffered a majority decision loss to Garcia before it was ruled a no-contest – appeared unimpressed by Garcia’s latest performance. Although Haney did not deliver a direct verbal attack, his reaction suggested skepticism about whether Garcia’s win truly answered lingering doubts.
The boxing world remains divided. Supporters argue Garcia’s latest victory shows growth and maturity. Critics believe elite technicians like Stevenson would expose defensive gaps that still exist.
Crawford’s assessment, however, was the strongest statement yet from a pound-for-pound great. His advice to Garcia was essentially strategic: reconsider the callout.
With Garcia riding momentum as a newly crowned champion and Stevenson eager to prove himself against big names, negotiations could gain traction quickly. But stylistically, the fight poses significant risks for both men.
If it happens, it could define the next era at lightweight and welterweight. Until then, Crawford’s message echoes loudly – Shakur Stevenson is a different level of challenge entirely.
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