“I think he’ll be much better. He’ll be much stronger,” Garcia said to Sean Zittel. “Cutting to 135 takes a lot out of his body, especially when you’re that big. One day is not enough to recuperate 100%. At 140 we’ll see a way better Raymond than at 135.”

Garcia’s view helps explain why he believes Muratalla still has another level to reach. The champion delivered one of the finest performances of his career against Andy Cruz, controlling much of the fight against one of boxing’s most accomplished technicians. Garcia expects an even stronger Muratalla once he no longer has to squeeze down to the lightweight limit.

Stepping up to junior welterweight would also revive a matchup Garcia has wanted for some time. Stevenson previously told him Muratalla was a fight he wanted, but Garcia no longer sees any reason to pursue it at 135 pounds now that Stevenson campaigns at 140.

“I would love that fight, but not at 135,” Garcia said. “I think 140 would be the best,” said Robert.

Garcia also believes Muratalla has the style to trouble Stevenson. He pointed to the victory over Andy Cruz, saying Muratalla’s pressure, ability to cut off the ring and force elite boxers backward would carry over against the former three-division champion.

“Ray fought great against Andy Cruz,” Garcia said. “Very few people expected him to dominate the way he did. He was always in control, threw really good punches and was able to cut the ring well, keep Andy backing up all the time. I think it could be very similar to Shakur. Obviously, Shakur is a very talented fighter, but Andy is very talented also. I think Raymond’s got the style to dominate those types of fighters, to dominate Shakur.”

Muratalla’s focus remains on Saturday’s title defense against Conceicao. A victory would strengthen Garcia’s argument that the champion is ready for bigger opportunities at 140 pounds, with Stevenson remaining one of the opponents he wants most.