Trainer Edwards Warns Stevenson: A Risk-Free Strategy Is Essential
Trainer Stephen Edwards believes that if Shakur Stevenson eventually gets the highly anticipated bout against Gervonta Davis, he will need to adopt a "risk-free" strategy to avoid getting knocked down. Edwards is skeptical that the judges will appreciate Stevenson’s safety-first, point-scoring style, which often resembles his amateur days. Shakur, the WBC lightweight champion, has a record of 23-0 with 11 knockouts, while Gervonta, the WBA lightweight champion, boasts an impressive 30-0-1 record with 28 knockouts. Edwards asserts that Stevenson’s best chance at victory is through a decision, as his punching power is not enough to secure a knockout win over the formidable Davis. The key, according to Edwards, is to minimize risks and focus on accumulating points.
Stevenson’s Mayweather-Era Technique
Shakur Stevenson’s fighting style is often compared to that of Floyd Mayweather, a legendary boxer known for his defensive prowess and ability to score points without taking significant damage. Despite Stevenson’s success in winning three division world titles, Edwards argues that his style might not fare well against the current crop of elite fighters, especially Davis. The reasoning behind this is that the judges today are more inclined to favor fighters who land powerful shots, a trend that has evolved since Mayweather’s prime. This was evident in Dmitry Bivol’s recent decision win over Artur Beterbiev, where Bivol’s popularity played a role in the judges’ decision. Edwards suggests that if Stevenson were to change his fighting style, he could end up getting countered and knocked out, which would not only cost him the fight but also tarnish his reputation.
The Evolution of Boxing Judging
The sport of boxing has undergone significant changes in recent years, and one of the most notable shifts is in how fights are judged. During the Mayweather era, fighters who were able to outmaneuver their opponents and score points with precision were often rewarded, even if they didn’t land many heavy punches. However, in the modern era, judges and fans tend to favor more dynamic and aggressive styles. Powerful shots and knockdowns are given more weight, and fighters who can deliver these are more likely to win on points. This trend poses a challenge for Stevenson, who relies heavily on his defensive skills and point-scoring ability. Edwards emphasizes that Stevenson’s style, while effective in the past, might not be as appreciated by today’s judges unless he is an A-side fighter.
Stevenson’s Strengths and Vulnerabilities
Shakur Stevenson’s strengths lie in his defensive skills and his ability to punch to the body. Edwards acknowledges that Stevenson is not a heavy hitter, and attempting to slug it out with Davis would be a significant mistake. Gervonta Davis is renowned for his counter-punching skills, and any attempt to target his body would likely result in Stevenson being clipped with a powerful counter. Edwards advises Stevenson to stick to his familiar style, touching Davis and moving out of harm’s way. While this approach might be seen as "dumbing down" the fight, it is the safest and most practical way for Stevenson to secure a decision win. However, the trainer also warns that Stevenson’s style might not be enough to sway the judges in his favor, especially if Davis continues to land significant power shots.
The Importance of Adherence to Stevenson’s Style
Edwards strongly advises against Stevenson trying to adapt his style to be more aggressive or to match Davis’s power. Doing so would be a high-risk strategy, and given Stevenson’s relatively weaker punching power, it could end in disaster. Edwards believes that Stevenson’s best chance is to stay true to his roots and use his defensive skills to score points. The trainer stresses that changing his approach could not only result in a loss but also in a devastating knockout that would leave Stevenson’s career in jeopardy. The key, according to Edwards, is to play it smart and avoid any unnecessary risks.
Preparing for the Inevitable Clash
As the boxing world waits with bated breath for a potential match between Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta Davis, it is clear that Stevenson will need to be highly strategic. Edwards’s advice underscores the importance of sticking to what has worked for Stevenson in the past, even if it means adopting a less crowd-pleasing style. The fight will be a test of Stevenson’s ability to adapt and execute a plan that minimizes his vulnerabilities. Whether the judges will reward his "risk-free" approach remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Stevenson will need to be at his defensive best to have any chance of success against the powerful and dynamic Gervonta Davis.
