Ryan Garcia names the world champion with the best chance of beating Shakur Stevenson: A boxing analyst's perspective
In a recent interview, renowned boxing analyst Ryan Garcia has sparked intriguing discussions by naming the potential opponent who could pose the toughest challenge for Shakur Stevenson. With Stevenson's upcoming bout against WBO super-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez on January 31st, Garcia's insights offer a fresh perspective on the possibilities ahead for the rising star.
The highly anticipated showdown at Madison Square Garden in New York will see Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion, aiming to become a four-division world champion. His recent unanimous decision victory over William Zepeda in July showcased his prowess at 135lbs, but the real test may lie ahead.
Stevenson's natural limit and highest weight class without a significant size disadvantage have been subjects of debate. While some believe he excels at 135lbs, others argue that moving up to 140lbs could present a more formidable challenge. This is where Garcia's analysis takes an interesting turn.
According to Garcia, Stevenson's toughest matchup might not be against the formidable Lopez, but rather against his former opponent, WBO welterweight champion Devin Haney. Haney's dominant points victory over Brian Norman Jr. in November solidified his status as a three-division world champion. Garcia's reasoning is twofold.
Firstly, Haney's physical attributes, including his height and reluctance to engage in close combat, could significantly impact the outcome. Secondly, from a stylistic standpoint, Garcia believes Haney's unique fighting style would present a more complex puzzle for Stevenson to solve. Despite the potential challenges, the question remains: will Stevenson opt to move up to 147lbs after his bout with Lopez?
The prospect of a welterweight clash with Haney is a bold move, considering the natural size disparity between the two. As the boxing world eagerly anticipates Stevenson's next move, Garcia's insights provide a thought-provoking perspective, inviting fans to ponder the potential outcomes and strategies in this intriguing sport.
