Shakur Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion, is gearing up to face Artem Harutyunyan in what he describes as a risky fight on July 6th at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Despite Harutyunyan’s recent loss to Frank Martin, Stevenson acknowledges the challenge that his opponent poses. Harutyunyan, with a record of 13-1 and 7 KOs, may not have shown significant power in his previous fights, but his movement and footwork present a unique puzzle for Stevenson to solve.
While Stevenson views Harutyunyan as a worthy adversary, fans and critics perceive the upcoming bout as a mismatch. Harutyunyan’s lackluster performance in his last fight has raised doubts about his capabilities against the skilled Stevenson. Many see this fight as another cherry-pick for Stevenson, who has been criticized for not facing top-tier opponents. Despite the external perceptions, Stevenson remains focused on the challenge at hand and is determined to deliver an impressive performance.
The stakes are high for Stevenson in this fight as it marks his final bout under Top Rank before becoming a free agent. Stevenson understands the importance of showcasing his skills and leaving a lasting impression to secure a lucrative deal with a new promoter or potentially re-signing with Top Rank. The pressure to perform exceptionally well against Harutyunyan looms over Stevenson, who cannot afford to adopt a safety-first approach that might lead to disappointment among fans.
As Stevenson prepares to step into the ring with Harutyunyan, he must view this fight as an audition for his future in boxing. The outcome of this bout could significantly impact Stevenson’s career trajectory and the opportunities that lie ahead. While critics may question the level of competition, Stevenson remains focused on the task at hand and is determined to prove his worth as a top contender in the lightweight division. In a sport where perception holds immense power, Stevenson must rise to the occasion and silence his doubters with a commanding performance on July 6th.