Top Rank Boxing: Newark, New Jersey
The 25-year old Shakur Stevenson is truly about to begin his boxing career. Yes, he’s a now former two-division champion. But the fun is about to start. This is where we see if everyone’s thoughts of him from day one come true. For moving to lightweight, the Shakur Stevenson roulette wheel has some interesting options.
After a masterclass in precision and smarts (except for two WWE style hip tosses); “Fearless” remains undefeated at 19-0 grabbing his tenth decision win 118-108, 117-109 2x. He walked down Robson Coneicao with laser-like uppercuts, stinging hooks, and an ever improving jab. In doing that he set career highs in punches landed at 199 and body shots at 75. He also ripped the body like a seasoned pro.
For the last ten out of the 12-rounds especially he was in total control. Sure, the three-time Brazilian Olympian remained dangerous and had some moments himself, but Stevenson was never in any trouble. Coneicao is now 0-2 in title fights, and if he ever wants to get back there, he needs some wins… and impressive ones.
Stevenson acknowledged just how tough and awkward Coneicao is. And in fairness showed him that he isn’t 100% there yet.
The Shakur Stevenson Roulette Wheel Is About To Start
Obviously the two-names he called out post-fight come as no shock. However, both Devin Haney and Vasiliy Lomachenko are a little tied up. So Stevenson probably won’t be getting them. Bob Arum’s isn’t much besides that. So this is going to require cooperation… and lots of it. It’s just a matter of who at any particular time can stand Arum. And for the sake of good crisp fights that will test Stevenson, it may come down to Oscar de la Hoya and Al Haymon.
The four possibilities to welcome him to lightweight are:
RYAN GARCIA: If not next, a battle with Ryan Garcia might be a throw back to the golden age of boxing. Two hot talents letting their hands fly. And while Garcia has some of the best hand speed in boxing, Stevenson’s movement and distance management might keep him safe. But there is not a boxing fan on Earth that would not sign up for a trilogy of that right now.
YURIORKIS GAMBOA: Sure Yuriorkis Gamboa is almost double Stevenson’s age. However, when a talent arrives at a new division, it’s best to be welcomed by a veteran. Almost a case of young lion taking out the old. He’s on a three-fight losing streak. Despite that fact, it’s a good name to put across from him.
JOJO DIAZ: He’s the southpaw of this group. That can test Stevenson in fortitude. Joseph Diaz is the vet that’s younger than Gamboa. And Diaz has no problems fighting on the inside either. Which would be a strong test for the Newark native.
ROLANDO ROMERO: “Rolly” is the wildcard here. Rolando Romero loves playing head games. Something Stevenson has never really been tested against. Which makes it an interesting dynamic. He swings from his heels, which with his movement and vision could keep Stevenson away. Romero does eat left hands, and if Stevenson continues to fill out, could make it a short night.
Stevenson said:
“Everyone at 135 gotta get it”.
Well, he might as well start here after a lot more work in the gym tightening those holes. Besides, he wasn’t able to finish Conceicao. And things only get tougher from here on out.
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