David Benavidez believes Ryan Garcia has the tools to hand Shakur Stevenson his first professional loss. The unbeaten contender is calling for Stevenson to move up to 147 pounds for the bout, dismissing any debate over a three-pound weight difference as insignificant.
While Stevenson weighs his options for future opponents, Benavidez made it clear which matchup he wants to see. He challenged Stevenson’s reported reluctance to face Garcia at the full welterweight limit, questioning the logic of arguing over a minor weight discrepancy for such a significant fight. Benavidez stated, “Another fight I really want to see is Ryan Garcia against Shakur… I don’t like what Shakur is saying: ‘I won’t fight him at 147, but I’ll fight him at 144’ – three pounds, what’s the difference?” He emphasized that the weight is not a legitimate barrier, adding, “There’s no difference there. That’s nothing. You drink some water and gain two pounds.”
Benavidez’s push for the fight is based on its high-stakes nature and commercial appeal. He sees it as a necessary and lucrative event for modern boxing. “I think that, if Shakur is ready to fight too, then he should fight him. It’s a huge fight, a fight that will sell a lot of pay-per-views.”
When pressed for a prediction, Benavidez was direct. He gives the edge to the current WBC welterweight titleholder, picking Garcia to overcome one of the sport’s most skilled defensive fighters. “I think so [Ryan can win]. Ryan beats him,” Benavidez said. He did, however, acknowledge the challenge Stevenson presents, noting the tactical puzzle Garcia would need to solve. “It won’t be easy because Shakur uses his feet very well and has very good defence too. It’s going to be a difficult fight, but it could be a very good fight.”
The call-out adds pressure on Stevenson, who is considering a move to welterweight to become a four-division champion. While Garcia is linked to a mandatory defense against Conor Benn, public demand for a superfight with Stevenson is growing. A victory over a pound-for-pound talent like Stevenson would be a career-defining moment for Garcia, while Stevenson risks his perfect record for a chance at undisputed greatness in a new division.
