What’s Next for Shakur Stevenson? Gervonta Davis, William Zepeda, and Other Potential Opponents for Newark Native After Artem Harutyunyan Victory
Shakur Stevenson has his sights set on the best the 135-pound division has to offer. Fresh off a dominant victory against Artem Harutyunyan, Stevenson is eager for a marquee fight that has long eluded him. Who will it be? One of the reigning champions at 135? Or a rising star ready to challenge the Newark native? If you have a guess, read on to see if your pick made the cut.
In front of his hometown crowd at the Prudential Center, Stevenson showcased his superior defense and swift movement, though the fight lacked the excitement fans craved. While he successfully defended his title, critics remain, calling him a hard-to-market, fan-unfriendly fighter. To change this perception, Stevenson needs a name that can bring out the best in him. Enter Gervonta Davis, the biggest name at 135.
Shakur Stevenson vs. Gervonta Davis: Clash of Brutal Force and Technical Prowess
Stevenson, 25, needs an opponent who can challenge him with an explosive arsenal. Davis, 29, fits this bill perfectly. Known for his knockout power and large fan base, ‘Tank’ Davis would bring immense attention to their fight. Their ongoing rivalry has already created significant hype and demand.
The matchup would feature contrasting styles, with Stevenson’s technical skills and quick hands against Davis’s in-ring IQ and power. But can Stevenson avoid Davis’s devastating punches while landing his own? This hypothetical fight promises to draw massive attention and investment, with both fighters presenting the biggest threat to each other yet. Stevenson could add another title to his collection, but is it worth the risk so early in his career? Perhaps testing the waters with a different opponent first would be wise.
“Bob is saving is son from his a**-whooping.”
Stevenson vs. William Zepeda: Cementing Grip on the WBC Title
William Zepeda is a relentless pressure fighter, always pushing forward with aggression. Fresh from a three-round demolition of Giovanni Cabrera, the Mexican fighter is eager for a title shot. This bout would pit Stevenson’s skills against Zepeda’s aggression, offering fans an exciting clash of styles.
While Stevenson employs a more defensive approach, Zepeda relentlessly attacks. This fight promises fireworks and fast-paced action. Zepeda has never faced someone with Stevenson’s skill set, and vice versa. Yet, doubts linger: is Zepeda’s name big enough for Stevenson? This may explain why Stevenson ignored Oscar De La Hoya’s offer for a fight with Zepeda. Stevenson might have a bigger name in mind.
Vasyl Lomachenko: Slaying a Future Hall of Famer and Walking the Unification Path
Stevenson made a statement by wearing a t-shirt declaring, “Bob is saving his son from his a**-whooping,” with Vasyl Lomachenko’s image. Stevenson has long called out the Ukrainian champion, now an IBF titleholder, who recently reclaimed his spot at the top of the 135-pound division.
A fight with Lomachenko could mark Stevenson’s transition at 135. As both fight under the Top Rank banner, this bout would be easy to arrange. Stevenson, now a free agent, could be lured back by Bob Arum with this fight. Could a showdown with Lomachenko be the catalyst for Stevenson’s career? Only time will tell if Stevenson follows a different path, similar to Floyd Mayweather’s meteoric rise.
