Shakur Stevenson, the rising star of boxing, is sending a clear message to the world: he's ready to take on anyone who dares to challenge him. At just 28 years old, Stevenson has already achieved the extraordinary, becoming a four-weight world champion with a commanding points victory over Teofimo Lopez. Now, he holds the WBO title at 140 lbs and has been stripped of his WBC belt at 135 lbs. (https://boxingnewsonline.net/news/shakur-stevenson-reacts-to-wbc-strip/)
The confidence and ambition are evident as Stevenson, a southpaw from Newark, has been vocal about his desire to face top contenders. One of his targets is Ryan Garcia, who is set to challenge for the WBC Welterweight World Title against Mario Barrios in Las Vegas. Garcia, eager to prove himself, has reciprocated Stevenson's interest, expressing his own desire to face the young champion.
In an interview with Ring Magazine (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j439TfUHzWA), Garcia stated, 'I really want to fight Shakur. The Haney rematch is always on the table, but that's who I want to fight. I want to go from Barrios to Shakur... 144. I'll create a whole division called 44. Me and Shakur. He said he'd do it. I know he's confident, so let's make it happen.'
Stevenson, quick to respond on X (https://x.com/ShakurStevenson/status/2022410114318373334), accepted the challenge, saying, '144 Ryan, let's do it... I'll be at your fight now, scrub! VADA will be involved, so don't try to run from it.' His mention of the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) is a subtle reminder of Garcia's past failed drug test, which led to his victory over Devin Haney being overturned to a no contest.
Stevenson then added a fiery statement, 'I'm gonna cook him,' echoing his determination to dominate in the ring. However, before these words turn into reality, Garcia must first overcome Barrios in their upcoming bout (https://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/47912841/barrios-vs-garcia-date-fight-card-how-watch), where he aims to secure his first world title win after two draws.
Additionally, Stevenson has his own challenges, as he is considering multiple potential matchups and must decide on a strategic path. He has expressed interest in fighters like Isaac Cruz and Conor Benn, and may explore opportunities to unify titles with other super-lightweight champions.
The boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome of these potential matchups, as Stevenson's rise continues to captivate fans and create exciting possibilities for the future of the sport.
