Shakur Stevenson has built a reputation as a fighter willing to face anyone put in front of him. But after capturing a world title in a fourth weight class, he may now be pushed toward the one bout he has openly said he never wants.
The 28-year-old from Newark recently moved up to super-lightweight and defeated Teofimo Lopez to claim the WBO crown, becoming the third-youngest four-division world champion in boxing history. However, soon after that victory, the WBC stripped him of his lightweight title, leaving Stevenson at a crossroads about his next move.
A Career at a Crossroads
With the WBC belt gone, Stevenson must now decide whether to return to 135lbs without a title, stay at 140lbs to defend his new championship, or even jump to welterweight in pursuit of further glory.
Complicating matters is the rise of his close friend Keyshawn Davis. Fighting on Stevenson’s undercard, Davis delivered an impressive win over Jamaine Ortiz and quickly positioned himself as a serious force at super-lightweight. The WBO has since installed Davis as the number one contender in the division.
Originally, Stevenson had envisioned a scenario where Davis would challenge for the belt after he himself moved back down to lightweight. But the WBC’s decision has disrupted that plan and raised the possibility that Stevenson could be ordered to defend his title against his friend.
“That’s My Brother”
Stevenson has made it clear that stepping into the ring with Davis is something he wants to avoid. He has spoken openly about their bond and the potential damage a fight could cause.
He explained that both men are fiercely competitive and that a fight would inevitably create a winner and a loser — something he fears could strain their relationship. Stevenson has insisted he has no intention of letting anyone beat him, regardless of who they are, and believes that kind of rivalry could come between them.
The only scenario he has jokingly entertained is one involving an extraordinary payday — the kind that would secure financial futures for generations. Short of that, he has shown little interest in making the matchup happen.
What Happens Next?
For now, the situation may not demand an immediate decision. The WBO is not expected to order the bout right away, and Davis may not remain at 140lbs long enough to become the mandatory challenger.
Instead, Davis has hinted at moving up to welterweight, even calling out WBO champion Devin Haney following his victory over Ortiz.
That potential shift could spare Stevenson from having to choose between defending his title and protecting a friendship — at least for the time being.
