Shakur Stevenson Prepares for “Dangerous” Artem Harutyunyan Fight Amid Free Agent Buzz:
Shakur Stevenson, the rising star of the lightweight division, finds himself in a period of both anticipation and uncertainty. As he gears up for his WBC lightweight title defense against Artem Harutyunyan at the Prudential Center in Newark on July 7th, the Newark native is also preparing for life beyond his current promoter, Top Rank. This bout marks his final fight under their banner, and all eyes are on his next move.
Harutyunyan’s Close Call with Frank Martin
Artem Harutyunyan enters the ring with a chip on his shoulder, having gone the distance in a grueling twelve-round fight against Frank Martin last July. Despite taking a knee in the final round due to fatigue, Harutyunyan demonstrated resilience and skill, which hasn’t gone unnoticed by Stevenson. Speaking with esteemed boxing journalist Kevin Iole, Stevenson emphasized that Harutyunyan’s performance against Martin was commendable and suggested that the fight could have easily swung in Harutyunyan’s favor had it not been for his late-round exhaustion.
Stevenson’s Focus Amid Free Agency
When questioned about the impending free agency and the interest from various promoters, Stevenson remained composed and focused. “I’m taking everything one step at a time… I mean pressure either busts pipes or makes diamonds,” he remarked. Stevenson acknowledged that the buzz around his free agency wouldn’t exist if he weren’t performing at a high level, reinforcing his commitment to his upcoming fight on July 7th.
Assessing Harutyunyan’s Threat
Stevenson is acutely aware of the challenge Harutyunyan presents. Despite being the favorite, Stevenson respects Harutyunyan’s abilities, stating, “He’s a good fighter, definitely dangerous.” Reflecting on Harutyunyan’s fight with Martin, Stevenson pointed out, “If it weren’t for Harutyunyan taking the knee because of fatigue in the final round, I think Harutyunyan [could have] won the fight.” This acknowledgment of his opponent’s potential danger underscores Stevenson’s focused and cautious approach.
The Ones That Got Away: Davis and Lomachenko
While Stevenson prepares for Harutyunyan, he cannot help but think about the high-profile fights that have slipped through his fingers. Gervonta Davis and Vasyl Lomachenko are two names that loom large in his division. With Davis fresh off a spectacular win against Martin and eyeing a bout with Lomachenko, Stevenson is left in a holding pattern.
Discussing the missed opportunities, Stevenson told Boxing Scene, “Honestly, I don’t care. It is what it is.” He elaborated on his mindset, saying, “I don’t give a fk about that st. I know that my time will come.” Stevenson’s focus is unwavering, confident that eventually, the big fights will materialize.
The Lomachenko Question
For Stevenson, a showdown with Lomachenko is a tantalizing prospect. He believes a unification bout with the IBF lightweight title holder is a natural next step. However, with his contract with Top Rank ending, the logistics are complicated. “I think me and Lomachenko should be next and unify… I think that’s a Lomachenko question, though. His team has to accept the fight,” Stevenson said. His resolve is clear: he wants to face Lomachenko and solidify his place among the elite.
Editor’s Insight: Stevenson’s Crucial Crossroad
Shakur Stevenson’s current situation is a classic case of a boxer at a crossroads. His talent and potential are undeniable, but the business side of boxing presents its own set of challenges. As Stevenson navigates his way through free agency, his performance against Harutyunyan will be crucial. A dominant win could catapult him into the mega-fights he desires, while a lackluster performance could delay his ascent.
