Terence Crawford and Shakur Stevenson have offered conflicting views on Ryan Garcia vs Conor Benn, to which ‘King Ry’ has now responded via social media.
The WBC welterweight champion is expected to defend his world title on September 12, with mandatory challenger Benn having been named as a likely opponent.
According to Golden Boy boss Oscar De La Hoya, though, the Las Vegas event cannot take place without permission from his promotional outfit and DAZN.
The Hall of Famer confirmed his stance via an Instagram message to Zuffa Boxing promoter Dana White, who is seemingly attempting to broadcast this fight on Paramount+.
With contracts in place, De La Hoya insisted that he has not approved Garcia’s next outing, which appears to be part of a two-fight deal with Turki Alalshikh and Sela.
As the situation continues to develop, only time will tell as to whether Garcia ends up facing Benn, who has not fought at 147lbs since his second-round finish over Chris Van Heerden in 2022.
Nevertheless, Crawford has backed ‘The Destroyer’ to dethrone Garcia, who subsequently urged four-division world champion Stevenson to enter the discussion.
Taking to social media, the 28-year-old admitted to disagreeing with his friend and mentor but nonetheless respects his opinion.
“[Crawford] is the realest dude I met, his pick is his pick. I think [Garcia is going to] win. It’s all opinionated.”
He is the realest dude I met, His pick is his pick I think you’re gone win it’s all opinionated https://t.co/Q0KTdSawln
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) July 2, 2026
Indeed, Garcia would be made a sizable favourite against Benn, especially after claiming his title with a dominant points victory over Mario Barrios in February.
Benn, meanwhile, comes off back-to-back unanimous decision wins over faded versions of Chris Eubank Jr and Regis Prograis.
