Shakur Stevenson ties Ryan Garcia fight to VADA testing before talks begin

Boxing News

by Tom Galm

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Shakur Stevenson has tied his potential fight against Ryan Garcia to the implementation of mandatory VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) testing. In an interview, Stevenson emphasized the importance of ensuring both fighters are clean before any negotiations for a high-profile bout begin. He stressed that this condition is crucial to maintaining fairness and transparency in the sport, especially given the recent controversies surrounding performance-enhancing drugs in boxing. Stevenson’s stance highlights the growing trend among top-tier boxers to prioritize anti-doping measures in major fights. VADA testing, which includes random drug tests outside of official weigh-ins, has become a key requirement for many fighters aiming to compete at the highest level. By linking his fight with Garcia to this process, Stevenson is signaling a commitment to upholding the integrity of the sport. The boxer’s comments also come amid ongoing discussions about how anti-doping regulations are enforced in boxing. While organizations like Matchroom and ESPN have implemented stricter testing protocols, some fighters argue that these measures can be invasive or unfair. Stevenson, however, appears willing to set the standard for transparency, even if it means delaying negotiations with Garcia until a testing agreement is reached. This move by Stevenson could have broader implications for the boxing world. If successful, it may encourage other fighters and promoters to adopt similar practices, potentially leading to a more rigorous anti-doping environment in the sport. For fans of boxing, this would mean more clarity and trust in the outcomes of high-profile matches, which is particularly important given the controversies surrounding doping in recent years. Ultimately, Stevenson’s decision to tie his fight with Garcia to VADA testing reflects a larger shift within boxing toward prioritizing clean competition. As the sport continues to grapple with issues related to performance-enhancing drugs, this kind of proactive approach could help restore faith among fans and stakeholders alike.

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Originally published on Boxing News on 2/13/2026