As the boxing world gears up for a promising 2025, the future of WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson sits in an uneasy balance. Promoter Eddie Hearn has expressed his desire to facilitate unification bouts for Stevenson against Denys Berinchyk or Vasily Lomachenko. However, both options come clouded with complications that could obstruct the path to these exciting matchups. This article delves into the implications of these anticipated fights, the challenges in securing them, and what lies beyond for Stevenson as he navigates a tumultuous boxing landscape.
At the forefront of hopes for a blockbuster fight in 2025 is the clash between Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis. Hearn emphasizes the significance of this matchup, presenting it as one of the premier attractions in modern boxing. Davis’s elite status in the sport makes this potential face-off tantalizing for fans and promoters alike. However, the likelihood of this match occurring appears dim, primarily due to Davis’s seeming lack of interest in engaging with Stevenson.
Recent events following one of Davis’s press conferences underscored this disinterest when he dismissed questions about facing Stevenson. His attitude raises questions about the future of their potential bout, as it relies not only on negotiation but also on a willingness to engage in the challenge from the Baltimore boxer. The pressure now rests on both fighters and their promoters to foster an environment conducive to making this fight a reality.
Challenges in Securing Other Matchups
The potential matchups with Berinchyk and Lomachenko present another set of challenges. Keyshawn Davis is slated to face Berinchyk for the WBO lightweight title early in 2025, putting Berinchyk out of the running for a bout with Stevenson if Davis successfully claims the title. Moreover, the looming possibility of Lomachenko’s retirement complicates the situation further. Lomachenko, a revered figure in boxing, may also be an unlikely opponent for Stevenson, as he contemplates his post-boxing future.
This uncertainty poses a dilemma for Hearn, who is faced with the prospect of scrambling to find a significant name for Stevenson if the initially promising matchups fall through. It’s a precarious position, as the clock ticks on Stevenson’s tenure with Matchroom Boxing, potentially lining up his final appearances under this contract without the high-stakes fights he deserves.
Eddie Hearn’s recognition of the urgency in keeping Stevenson active cannot be overstated. Stevenson, who holds an impressive record of 22 wins with 10 knockouts, is scheduled to fight Floyd Schofield on February 22, 2025. A victory in that match would ideally position him to contend against William Zepeda, a highly ranked contender who has been sidelined due to injury. However, concerns loom regarding whether Zepeda will remain healthy and available in time.
Journalist Salvador Rodriguez’s reports that Zepeda would require “six to eight weeks” for recovery introduce additional uncertainty. If his recovery drags on and hinders the schedule, Hearn may have to rethink his strategy entirely. The stakes are high for Stevenson—to establish himself further in the boxing landscape, he needs consistent high-profile bouts to maintain momentum and build his legacy.
The trajectory for Stevenson in 2025 is filled with both hope and apprehension. While the potential for unification fights and a major clash with Gervonta Davis creates a buzz around his career, the barriers to realization are increasingly pronounced. Eddie Hearn’s commitment to securing the best opportunities for Shawkur Stevenson will be tested as the boxing world awaits clearer paths for these exciting matchups. The coming year signifies a crucial chapter in Stevenson’s journey, one that will determine if he can transcend the current barriers and seize the opportunities that define a champion. As fans, the anticipation for what is to come remains, alongside the hope that the boxing community rally behind making these fights happen.
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