Shakur Stevenson fires back after Ryan Garcia doubts his elite status
Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images Shakur Stevenson has responded firmly after Ryan Garcia took aim at him. The exchange adds another layer to a rivalry that is quickly gaining traction. Garcia’s latest comments came during a livestream alongside David Benavidez.
The WBC welterweight champion questioned Stevenson’s standing in the sport and suggested he should move up in weight if he truly believes he is elite, something Benavidez agreed. ‘King Ryan’ operates at 147 pounds, while Stevenson has recently competed at 140. So, right now, there are no expectations of a potential fight, despite the growing rivalry.
Shakur Stevenson hits back at Ryan Garcia callout Photo by Cris Esqueda/Golden Boy/Getty Images Garcia’s remarks, where he labelled ‘Sugar’ a “puppy” and questioned his level, quickly spread online and drew a response. Stevenson replied on X: “On my 4th weight class now and they begging me to go to up to my 5th, but the key part is I said I will, just on my time and not on nobody else’s time! Tell David I will go up when he goes up to his 4th weight class to fight Usyk?
” The 28-year-old fighter has won world titles in four weight divisions, yet questions remain. If Stevenson moves up in weight, he could settle the debate with his critics in the ring. Shakur Stevenson softens tone as David Benavidez makes major weight jump Stevenson later clarified his stance regarding Benavidez, easing any suggestion of direct conflict.
“I ain’t beefing with Benavidez either he a hellavu fighter, I’m just speaking facts” he published on X. Despite Stevenson’s remarks, it is important to note that Benavidez is preparing for a major step up to cruiserweight, where he is expected to face Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez for the WBO and WBA titles in May. In his last fight against Anthony Yarde, Benavidez weighed 174.