Garcia changes that situation. He brings attention and money even when he loses, and Stevenson understands that beating one other technical opponent at 140 won’t change his standing with fans. Garcia offers something different, and Stevenson knows it.
“I really like when the tables turn. Set it up, though, so I can show you why I’m different,” Stevenson said to Ring Magazine.
Stevenson has been energetic this week, agreeing to Garcia’s 144-pound catchweight because he knows that’s where the cash is, but he’s also adding VADA testing as a condition while making it clear he wants the fight next. He also said he’ll be ringside at T-Mobile Arena to confront whoever wins, ensuring his presence is a component of the moment.
He’s adding VADA testing to guard himself, similar to he’s demanding a rehydration clause for Conor Benn. Stevenson is putting handicaps in place before the fight even happens, and it makes him look so weak.
Stevenson clearly smells green, and he’s not even waiting around to see how the fight goes. He’s already attempting to line himself up for Garcia because he knows that’s where the cash is.
Earlier today, Stevenson went on The Stephen A. Smith Show and dismissed Garcia’s abilities, calling him “food” and saying his left hook may be neutralized. He has made it clear he believes Garcia is a simple fight for him.
“He knows when he’s within the ring with me, it ain’t going to be like what he does to those other guys,” Garcia said.
Stevenson has already agreed to Garcia’s 144-pound catchweight because he knows that’s where the cash is, but he’s also adding VADA testing, similar to he’s demanding a rehydration clause for Conor Benn. He’s putting handicaps in place before the fight even happens, and it makes him look so weak.
Shakur is acting really needy at once, and you possibly can tell he doesn’t trust Garcia to maintain winning. He’s got to know his marketability could disappear quickly if Garcia takes one other loss. He’s not even waiting around. He wants the cash fight now.