Keith Thurman explains why Ryan Garcia should steer clear of Shakur Stevenson

Keith Thurman is due back in the ring on March 28, where he will face Sebastian Fundora for Fundora’s WBC super welterweight title. “One Time” recently spoke to Fight Hub TV about Ryan Garcia, where he named the fight “King Ry” should pursue, while also naming the fighter he should avoid.

Ryan Garcia becomes world champion and has options

Garcia (25-2, 20 KOs) started quickly against Barrios in his last fight, scoring a knockdown in the first round. “King Ry” was too fast and too accurate throughout for the brave Barrios. Garcia ultimately won by unanimous decision, with scorecards of 119-108, 120-107, and 118-109.

The main question before Garcia-Barrios was which Ryan Garcia would show up? He answered that question with conviction. After this win, Garcia’s future options have multiplied. 

Thurman warns Ryan Garcia against Stevenson fight

One option mentioned for Garcia is a possible catchweight fight against Shakur Stevenson. This would undoubtedly attract plenty of attention in the boxing world: the silky skills against the power of Garcia. 

Thurman, when talking to Fight Hub TV, discussed Garcia’s future, but warned him against facing Stevenson:

“I think the Rolly fight is really the one he should go for. And then, make the fight that the people want. Shakur is not a good match for a lot of people. Shakur is just very defensive and skillfully offensive. He’s (Ryan Garcia) got power on his side. Whenever you’re with a very skilful, talented, athletic person, it’s not a real fight if you don’t have some type of equaliser. 

“At least he’s got that power on his side, that can potentially do something. We’ve seen it several different times throughout his career. But, I mean, I don’t know how well Shakur would really do at 147, but to me, the 147 division is not even run by welterweights right now. A lot of guys moved into 147, which makes it safe for Shakur,” said Thurman.