The Road to Brooklyn
Shakur Stevenson, the current WBA lightweight champion, is set to defend his title against Lamont Roach this Saturday, March 1st, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Known for his technical prowess and strategic approach, Stevenson has been vocal about his desire to face Gervonta Davis next if he emerges victorious. The anticipation is palpable, and the boxing world is eager to see how this bout unfolds and whether Stevenson can secure the high-stakes fight he has been pushing for.
The Smell of Desperation
Stevenson’s constant calls for a fight with Gervonta Davis, however, have been met with some skepticism. Critics argue that his persistent appeals make him appear desperate and eager for any opportunity to step into the ring with a bigger name. This perception is not entirely unfounded; Davis, known for his power and charisma, has a larger following and a more impressive record. Stevenson’s focus on this potential fight, rather than his upcoming bout with Roach, has raised questions about his current form and confidence.
Stevenson’s Recent Performances
Stevenson’s move up to the 135-lb weight class has not been as smooth as he might have hoped. Since making the transition two years ago, he has not faced any top-tier opponents. His most recent victory was a ninth-round knockout of Josh Padley, who is ranked 12th in the division. Prior to that, he defeated Artem Harutyunyan by unanimous decision in a twelve-round bout. While these wins have helped him maintain his WBA title, they have not done much to elevate his status or silence his critics. Stevenson’s promoters have been cautious, matching him against fringe contenders, which has further fueled the perception that he may not be ready for the likes of Gervonta Davis.
Stevenson’s Boxing Style
Stevenson’s boxing style is characterized by his technical precision and strategic play. He is known for his ability to break down his opponents and pick them apart, rather than relying on brute force. However, this style has its limitations. Stevenson lacks the power and physical ruggedness that are often associated with top-tier lightweights. His hands have shown signs of breaking down since his move to the 135-lb weight class, which has added to the concerns about his durability and long-term prospects.
The Match-Up with Gervonta Davis
When asked about his potential fight with Gervonta Davis, Stevenson remains confident. "Tank’s style: he’s a power puncher. He’s a guy that is trying to knock you out. I’m a guy that is trying to break you down and pick you apart. When the knockout comes, it comes. It’s two different styles, but I’m better than him in the art of boxing," he told the media. Stevenson believes that his technical skills and strategic mindset give him an edge over Davis, who is known for his aggressive, high-octane style. However, many boxing fans and analysts remain skeptical, given Stevenson’s recent performances and the gap in their current levels of success.
The Future of Stevenson’s Career
Despite the challenges, Stevenson remains committed to his goal of fighting Gervonta Davis. He believes that a win against Roach will solidify his case for the high-profile bout. "I think I’m going to put my bet on Roach," he said, showing a mix of confidence and pragmatism. Stevenson’s promoters may have advised him to push for the Davis fight, knowing that it could provide the break he needs to achieve stardom. However, the success of this strategy will ultimately depend on how he performs on Saturday and whether he can convincingly prove his worth as a top contender in the lightweight division.
