The Ultimate Rivalry
Terence Crawford, the seasoned and highly respected boxing champion, believes a fight between WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson and WBO champ Keyshawn Davis is not just possible but "definitely doable." Despite their close friendship, Crawford sees this matchup as a significant opportunity for both fighters to make substantial financial gains through a high-profile pay-per-view (PPV) event. The idea of good friends squaring off in the ring is a common theme in boxing, where the sport often blurs the lines between personal relationships and professional ambition.
The Financial Incentive
A fight between Stevenson (23-0, 11 KOs) and Davis (13-0, 9 KOs) is a financial no-brainer. Both fighters have been vocal about their desire to face Gervonta Davis (30-0-1, 28 KOs), the reigning king of the lightweight division, but their pursuit has been largely fruitless. The possibility of a Stevenson vs. Davis bout would generate significant interest and revenue, making it a lucrative opportunity for both camps. However, setting aside their "brother pact" for the sake of financial gain is a challenge that cannot be underestimated. The potential for a massive payday, however, is a powerful motivator.
Keyshawn’s Urgency
Keyshawn Davis faces a more pressing need for this fight compared to Shakur Stevenson. Davis is already outgrowing the lightweight division and risks being outdated by 2026 if the matchup doesn’t happen soon. Stevenson, on the other hand, could potentially follow Davis to higher weight classes such as welterweight (147 lbs), middleweight (154 lbs), or even light middleweight (160 lbs) in the coming years. If they don’t fight at 135 lbs soon, the window of opportunity could close, making this a critical moment for Davis’s career.
Crawford’s Perspective
Terence Crawford, known for his candid and insightful commentary, is pragmatic about the potential matchup. "I would be torn if they fought each other, but at the same time, if they were to fight each other, it’s a sport," Crawford told Ring Magazine. He acknowledges the emotional weight of friends facing off but emphasizes that the financial and professional benefits outweigh the personal ties. Crawford draws parallels to other notable fights, such as the bout between Floyd Mayweather and Zab Judah, which took place despite their personal relationship. "It’s definitely doable and possible," he adds, highlighting that boxing has a history of friends becoming opponents in the ring.
The Futility of Chasing Tank
Both Stevenson and Davis have been on a relentless pursuit of a fight against Gervonta Davis, hoping for a blockbuster matchup that could solidify their status as top contenders. However, their efforts have been met with disappointment. The obvious reluctance of Gervonta to face either of them has left them in a state of limbo. It would be wise for Stevenson to include a 10-lb rehydration clause in the contract to prevent Davis from significantly rehydrating after the weigh-in. A secondary weight check on the evening of the fight would ensure fairness and prevent Davis from entering the ring at a much heavier weight, which could be a decisive factor.
Moving Forward
The futility of chasing Gervonta Davis has taught Stevenson and Davis a valuable lesson. Instead of waiting for a fight that may never happen, they should focus on the immediate opportunities that present themselves. Fighting each other could be a stepping stone to bigger and better things. By taking calculated risks and facing the best opponents available, they can further develop their careers and increase their chances of eventually getting the fight they’ve been dreaming of. The road to the top is often paved with tough decisions and sacrifices, and this potential matchup could be a defining moment in their journeys.
