WBC Lightweight Belt Vacant, Shakur’s Next Move

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 3:53 AM ET

Following Shakur Stevenson’s move to the 140-pound division to defeat Teofimo Lopez, the WBC officially declared its lightweight world title vacant.

Stevenson’s win allowed him to secure the WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight belts, effectively ending his tenure at 135 pounds, where he had previously hinted at a return. This shift has prompted a total reorganization of the lightweight rankings, leaving contenders vying for the chance to claim the title.

The WBC rankings have elevated William Zepeda to the top contender spot, positioning him as the primary candidate to fight for the vacant championship. Following closely behind Zepeda in the Top 5 are Lamont Roach Jr., Andy Cruz, Dzmitry Asanau, and Sam Noakes. While Zepeda previously faced Stevenson and fell short in a clear decision last year, he remains a dominant force in the division.

Jadier Herrera, who secured the WBC interim lightweight title just three weeks ago with a knockout victory over Ricardo Nunez, also has to be mentioned. The WBC has opted not to automatically elevate Herrera to full champion status. Instead, Zepeda could face Herrera for the vacant WBC belt.

What’s Next?

The news means that Shakur will likely stay at 140 pounds. He could take on Dalton Smith, who is the WBC champion. Shakur and Smith both work with Matchroom Boxing, meaning it is much easier to make that fight. A win would also allow Shakur to become a unified champion, thus taking him a step closer to undisputed.

Alternatively, there is a possible bout against the IBF champion Richardson Hitchins. Hitchins faces Oscar Duarte in his fight, meaning a win is pivotal. Hitchins also has ties to Matchroom Boxing, removing any potential barriers to making a fight.

Equally, Shakur may move to 147 to face Conor Benn. Stevenson made it clear that he wanted a 10-pound rehydration clause imposed on Benn. Conor had imposed this on Chris Eubank Jr. Since Benn is also with Matchroom, these are fights which could be made much easily. The ball is now in Shakur’s court, as a possible fight with O’Shaquie Foster is unlikely now.

Bradley Reacts

“Who should he fight next? Shakur wants to go to 135. I’m going to tell you all, you might disagree with me, but a fighter that can get with Shakur, I’m not saying beat him, but can get with him on his level, his name is O’Shaquie Foster.

“Foster as far as notoriety, he’s not bigger than Teo, but as far as skill [he is]. O’Shaquie should be on the pound-for-pound list. O’Shaquie has a lot of what Shakur has with the distance, he got a fast jab too coming from the southpaw stance. The last fighter that beat Shakur Stevenson [in the amateurs] was a southpaw. O’Shaquie can switch to orthodox too, he’s big too. He’s got some size on him, some reach on him, got some pop on him,” Tim Bradley said

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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