Shakur Stevenson accepted Ryan Garcia’s invitation, but he did it on his own terms. He immediately tied any future fight to a VADA test, bringing Garcia’s failed test history into the discussion before any negotiations took place.
Garcia called Stevenson a credit to following his challenge as he prepares for his February 21 title challenge against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. He floated the idea of meeting at a common catchweight between the divisions, indicating a willingness to go outside the normal boundaries if a fight could be made.
“I really want to fight Shakur,” Garcia told Ring Magazine. “I want to go from Barrios to Shakur … 144. I’m going to build a whole section called 44. Me and Shakur.”
Stevenson responded on social media soon after, officially accepting the offer while attaching a clear condition tied to drug testing.
“144 Ryan, let’s do it… I’ll be in your fight now!
Public acceptance came with a condition
The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association reference links directly to Garcia’s recent history. His April win over Devin Haney was vacated to a no contest after he tested positive for a banned substance, a result that changed his standing and his outlook for future fights.
Stevenson’s decision to speak about VADA publicly ensures that the issue remains attached to any discussion involving Garcia. Drug-testing policies are usually handled privately between camps and promoters, but Stevenson quickly brought it into the open. That decision establishes the test as part of the foundation rather than something that is quietly negotiated later.
His answer also guides the conversation. Garcia started to call out, but Stevenson used his response to explain how the fight would work.
Garcia still has business ahead of him
Garcia has to face Barrios first, and the result will have an impact on what the next options are. A win allows him to continue with his proposed catchweight, while a loss will reduce the need for new high-level fights.
Stevenson’s position remains secure regardless of the season. He recently earned a world title at 140 pounds and has defeated many opponents in weight classes, including Isaac Cruz and Conor Benn. His early reference to VADA ensures that assessment remains attached to any potential agreement whenever negotiations begin.
Stevenson asserts control before negotiations begin
Fighters called each other regularly, but Stevenson’s response went further by establishing consistent expectations and oversight. He acknowledged Garcia’s interest while setting out a scenario that reflected Garcia’s recent disciplinary history.
Garcia’s immediate focus remains on Barrios, and Stevenson continues to explore options at all levels. The fight itself remains uncertain, but Stevenson has already outlined part of the environment in which it will take place, showing that he intends to dominate the opponent when the time comes.
