Ryan Garcia Confident Speed and Timing Will Beat Shakur Stevenson

Garcia claims he has the physical tools to overcome Stevenson's defensive prowess

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:50pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the action of a boxing match, with the figures of the fighters broken down into overlapping planes of vivid colors, conveying the dynamic energy and tension of the potential showdown.A cubist interpretation of the potential clash between two of boxing's rising stars, Garcia and Stevenson, whose contrasting styles could make for a captivating matchup.NYC Today

Lightweight champion Ryan Garcia believes his speed and timing will allow him to defeat undefeated WBO super-lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson in a potential matchup. Garcia pointed to his past victories over slick fighters like Devin Haney as evidence he can solve Stevenson's defensive style, though negotiations for the fight have recently stalled over a rehydration clause dispute.

Why it matters

This potential superfight between two of boxing's top young stars would be a highly anticipated clash of contrasting styles, pitting Garcia's explosive offense against Stevenson's masterful defense. The outcome could determine the future landscape of the 140-pound division.

The details

Garcia (25-2, 20 KOs) recently won the WBC welterweight title and has been linked to a fight with Stevenson (25-0, 11 KOs), who just added the WBO super-lightweight title to his resume by defeating Teofimo Lopez. While Garcia believes his speed and timing will give him the edge, Stevenson is known for his ability to 'hit and not get hit,' making it difficult for opponents to land their power shots.

  • In January 2026, Stevenson defeated Lopez to become a four-division world champion.
  • In February 2026, Garcia won the WBC welterweight title with a victory over Mario Barrios.
  • Negotiations for a Stevenson-Garcia fight at 140 pounds recently stalled over a rehydration clause dispute.

The players

Ryan Garcia

The WBC welterweight champion, known for his speed and powerful left hook.

Shakur Stevenson

The undefeated WBO super-lightweight champion, recognized for his exceptional defensive skills and ability to 'hit and not get hit.'

Devin Haney

A slick fighter whom Garcia has previously defeated, and who is longer, stronger, and faster than Stevenson according to Garcia.

Teofimo Lopez

The former lightweight champion whom Stevenson recently defeated to add the WBO super-lightweight title to his collection.

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What’s next

Negotiations for a Stevenson-Garcia fight at 140 pounds recently stalled over a rehydration clause dispute. Instead, Garcia has pivoted toward a potential July 2026 date with Teofimo Lopez, the very man Stevenson just defeated for the WBO super-lightweight title.

The takeaway

This potential matchup between two of boxing's rising stars would be a classic clash of styles, with Garcia's explosive offense looking to overcome Stevenson's masterful defense. While Garcia believes his physical tools will give him the edge, Stevenson's ability to 'hit and not get hit' has proven difficult for opponents to solve so far.