A Lost Cause?
Promoter Eddie Hearn still clings to the slim hopes of setting up a fight between WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta Davis. In a recent interview, Stevenson seemed to concede that the match might never happen. Hearn’s strategy was to keep Stevenson active with softer opponents, eventually leading to a high-profile fight with William Zepeda as a stepping stone. However, Zepeda and his promoters at Golden Boy have shown no interest in making the fight. Meanwhile, Davis is embroiled in his own issues, such as the Lamont Roach situation. Once that is resolved, Davis reportedly has his sights set on other opponents, including Vasily Lomachenko, Ryan Garcia, and even Jake Paul. Stevenson is nowhere on Davis’s radar. When Davis laid out the conditions for Stevenson to fight him—such as facing his "brother" Keyshawn Davis—it was a clear signal that the fight would never materialize. Stevenson now seems defeated, realizing the futility of chasing this mirage for so long.
Hearn’s Resolve
Eddie Hearn remains determined to make the fight happen, and for good reason. The WBA champion Gervonta Davis represents the most lucrative opportunity for Stevenson at 135 pounds. If Hearn fails to secure this fight, it would essentially render Stevenson’s signing with Matchroom a wasted effort. Stevenson’s recent performances, particularly against Josh Padley on February 22nd, have raised concerns about his ability to hold onto his WBC belt and unbeaten record if thrown into the deep end of the lightweight division. His fights against Padley and Edwin De Los Santos have exposed his limitations. Stevenson would struggle against top contenders like Andy Cruz, Abdullah Mason, Ernesto Mercado, Raymond Muratalla, or Frank Martin. Hearn can’t keep giving Stevenson special treatment indefinitely; he needs to face the tougher competition.
Stevenson’s Disposition
Shakur Stevenson has publicly expressed his willingness to fight anyone. "Eddie, I ain’t going to lie. I’m ready to fight any and everybody," he declared. However, his recent comments reveal a deeper sense of resignation. Stevenson’s demeanor suggests that he is starting to accept the reality that the Davis fight may never come to fruition. The prolonged pursuit of this matchup has taken a toll on him, and he seems to be coming to terms with the possibility of moving on to other opponents. This shift in attitude is a stark contrast to his earlier enthusiasm and confidence, highlighting the emotional and psychological impact of continuously chasing a fight that seems increasingly unattainable.
Hearn’s Perspective
Eddie Hearn remains undeterred, emphasizing the significance of the Davis-Stevenson fight. "Obviously, there’s the Tank fight, which is, that’s the fight. Tank’s really going to run out of opponents," Hearn said to iFL TV. Despite Davis’s recent underwhelming performance, Hearn still believes in Stevenson’s capabilities. "I believe Shakur is the best 135-pounder. Just because Tank had a bad performance last Saturday, people are now saying, ‘Yeah, I think Shakur does beat Tank,’ whereas before last Saturday, ‘Oh, you’d never beat Tank.’ Boxing is like that." Hearn’s unwavering belief in Stevenson’s potential is evident, as he continues to push for the fight, seeing it as a pivotal moment in Stevenson’s career. "It’s [Tank-Shakur] just a great fight. I really want to make that fight, and I believe wholeheartedly, Shakur Stevenson beats Gervonta Davis," Hearn stated.
The Future of Stevenson
With Shakur Stevenson acknowledging that he has only one fight left on his contract with Matchroom Boxing, the pressure is on Hearn to secure a meaningful bout. Stevenson’s desire for the Davis fight is clear, but the reality is that other options may need to be explored. Hearn’s challenge is to find a middle ground that keeps Stevenson engaged and relevant while maintaining his status as a top contender. The lightweight division is fiercely competitive, and Stevenson must prove his mettle against formidable opponents to remain a relevant force. Hearn’s strategy will be crucial in navigating Stevenson’s next steps, whether it involves making one last push for Davis or finding a new path forward.
A Turning Point in Stevenson’s Career
The potential matchup between Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta Davis has been a long and contentious saga. As Stevenson faces the reality of this fight possibly never happening, it marks a turning point in his career. Hearn’s determination to make the fight is a testament to his belief in Stevenson’s talent, but the harsh realities of the boxing world cannot be ignored. Stevenson must now make a critical decision: continue to hold out for the Davis fight or embrace new opportunities that can further solidify his legacy in the sport. The next few months will be crucial as Hearn and Stevenson navigate this pivotal moment, shaping the future trajectory of Stevenson’s boxing career.
