BY BOXING HIT STAFF-
Matchroom has recently secured a promotional deal with WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson for his upcoming fight against Joe Cordina on October 12th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While the terms of the agreement have not been disclosed, promoter Eddie Hearn’s decision to sign Stevenson may be a risky move. With the champion’s recent lackluster performances, it might be more prudent to approach this as a one-fight deal, especially considering the potential backlash if Stevenson fails to deliver in the ring.
Despite Hearn’s ambition to transform Stevenson into a superstar, the reality is far more complex. Stevenson’s style, characterized by hit-and-run tactics, has failed to capture the hearts of fans both in the professional and amateur ranks. His elusive approach may find some appeal in the UK, where he has been likened to a modern-day Naseem Hamed without the power and theatrics. However, to truly make a mark on the global stage, Stevenson needs to showcase a more engaging and entertaining fighting style.
The winner of the Stevenson-Cordina bout will face #1 WBC contender William Zepeda in what promises to be a daunting challenge for either fighter. This matchup could determine Stevenson’s path to a potential showdown with Gervonta Davis in the future. Despite Stevenson’s confidence in his abilities, skeptics doubt his willingness to engage in exciting and competitive fights, citing his cautious demeanor in the ring.
Stevenson’s controversial decision against Edwin De Los Santos has tainted his reputation among fellow fighters, who view him as a reluctant combatant unwilling to trade blows for twelve rounds. While he has been labeled as an “Outlaw” by some, others see him more as an “Outcast” or “Pariah” in the boxing community. Hearn’s lofty aspirations for Stevenson as a global superstar may be difficult to achieve without a significant shift in his approach to the sport.
Stevenson’s transition to the lightweight division has been marked by uncertainty, with many questioning his ability to compete at this level. While he remains undefeated, his performance against De Los Santos raised doubts about his preparedness for the challenges ahead. As Hearn and Matchroom seek to elevate Stevenson’s profile, the champion must confront his limitations and adapt his fighting style to appeal to a wider audience.
Turning Shakur Stevenson into a household name will require more than just promotional efforts; it will demand a fundamental shift in his approach to boxing. Whether he can overcome his reputation as a cautious fighter and embrace a more dynamic and exciting style remains to be seen. As he prepares to face Cordina and Zepeda in the coming months, Stevenson must prove that he has the skill, resilience, and charisma to capture the imagination of fans worldwide. Only time will tell if he can rise to the challenge and secure his place among the sport’s elite.
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