Shakur Stevenson Drawn Into Ryan Garcia Call-Out After WBC Win; Crawford Says 'He Wipes the Floor with Him'
Ryan Garcia's first world title victory and ensuing call-out of Shakur Stevenson has stirred debate over matchup viability and weight, with Terence Crawford praising Garcia while questioning Mario Barrios's performance and predicting a decisive outcome if Garcia were to face Stevenson. The development matters because it places Shakur Stevenson at the center of immediate welterweight-era intrigue and exposes a likely sticking point in weight negotiation.
Crawford on Shakur Stevenson and Garcia
Former undisputed champion Terence Crawford, speaking on the post-fight broadcast, lauded Ryan Garcia's performance but said Mario Barrios was not as effective as expected. Crawford judged Barrios to be too slow and lacking a game plan, describing him as "there to be hit. " On a potential fight between Garcia and Shakur Stevenson, Crawford backed his friend and training partner, saying he believes Garcia "will wipe the floor with him" and arguing that Ryan would struggle to land the same shots on Stevenson that he managed against Barrios.
Garcia's WBC Title and Barrios Performance
Ryan Garcia dominated Mario Barrios en route to winning the WBC belt at 147lbs, a victory that many see as the realization of potential after a period described as blowing hot and cold. That dominant showing has added momentum to Garcia's positioning in the division and prompted the immediate call-out of top names, including Shakur Stevenson, as the welterweight landscape reshapes around his newfound title status.
Catchweight Demand: The 144lbs Obstacle
One concrete hurdle between the fighters is Shakur Stevenson’s demand for a catchweight of 144lbs. That demand is a clear negotiating pivot: whether or not the fight materialises remains to be seen, particularly with Stevenson insisting on 144lbs — something Ryan Garcia may struggle with. The catchweight issue sharpens the tactical and physical considerations each side will weigh before committing to a match-up.
Options for Garcia and Stevenson
Both men retain alternative pathways beyond an immediate showdown. Garcia could pursue a rematch with Devin Haney, a prospect made more significant by Haney now carrying the added credentials of two world titles. That avenue presents a straightforward title consolidation storyline for Garcia if weight or other logistics block a Stevenson fight.
Conor Benn is another name in the mix and remains an option for both fighters. Benn has recently made headlines after a controversial big-money move to Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing, a development that keeps him on the radar as a potential opponent depending on how negotiations and timing unfold.
What This Means Moving Forward
The combination of Crawford's public endorsement of a Garcia win over Shakur Stevenson and Stevenson's 144lbs demand sets up a practical impasse: stylistic confidence versus contractual logistics. The debate over who holds the advantage is now as much about pounds on the scale as it is about ring IQ and power transfer. At the same time, Garcia's new title opens other high-profile doors that could delay or derail a Stevenson meeting.
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Overall, the post-fight moment amplified by Crawford's remarks elevates talk of a Garcia–Shakur Stevenson showdown, but shakur stevenson’s catchweight demand and Garcia’s alternate options mean the matchup remains uncertain. Any firm plans will hinge on weight agreement, competing opportunities for Garcia, and how both camps choose to prioritize titles, rematches or new high-profile pairings.
