Shakur Sets A Record, What’s Next?

Having secured a victory over Teofimo Lopez to become a four-weight champion, we look at what could be next for Shakur Stevenson. While Shakur has proven he can dominate at 140 lbs, the current promotional landscape suggests three paths forward. The most immediate and vocal challenge came from Conor Benn, who jumped into the ring seconds after the scorecards were read.

The Future

X: @boxingscene

Despite the size difference, Shakur has expressed a serious interest in this fight, provided his business terms are met. Shakur wants Benn to abide by a ten-pound rehydration clause, like he imposed on Chris Eubank Jr. Benn is a draw in the UK and would represent Shakur’s biggest commercial “money fight” to date. 

If Shakur decides to stay at 140 lbs to unify the division, his primary target will likely be the newly crowned WBC champion, Dalton Smith. Smith was ringside for the Lopez fight and has been vocal about wanting to unify belts. Shakur currently holds the WBO and Ring Magazine titles. Adding Smith’s WBC belt would move him one step closer to becoming an undisputed champion.

In a surprising pre-fight revelation, Shakur mentioned that he still considers himself a “35-pounder” and may return to the lightweight division if the “big fights” at 140 or 147 don’t materialize. While Shakur recently dismissed talk of Gervonta “Tank” Davis due to Davis’ legal issues and lack of recent activity, a return to 135 lbs keeps the door open for the most anticipated fight in boxing history. That depends on whether Davis will box again, as well as if he overcomes his current legal troubles.