The boxing landscape is laden with possibilities and pitfalls, especially for athletes like Shakur Stevenson, who find themselves at pivotal junctures in their careers. With Eddie Hearn, a formidable promoter in the sport, at the helm of Stevenson’s trajectory, a whirlwind of match-making possibilities looms. Yet, amidst this diligent effort lies a tangle of uncertainties that could dictate the champion’s next moves—particularly the anticipated mega-fight against Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, which is far from guaranteed.
The Elusive Tangibility of the Mega-Fight
Eddie Hearn has made it clear that his priority is to orchestrate a monumental showdown between Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion, and Gervonta Davis. With both fighters possessing explosive striking capabilities and a fanbase eager for action, a bout between them would not just be a fight, it would be a spectacle. Unfortunately, Gervonta’s apparent disinterest in competing against Stevenson raises difficult questions about the feasibility of this fight materializing. Reports suggest that after a recent press conference, Davis shunned any conversation that involved Stevenson, which indicates a reluctance to engage with a potential rival.
This lack of enthusiasm from Davis could derail not just the proposed mega-fight but also alter the trajectory of Stevenson’s career. In the boxing world, timing and opportunity are paramount; an athlete’s legacy is often defined by the opponents they choose to confront. Failure to secure this fight would not only halt the momentum Stevenson has built but might also trigger Hearn to scramble for alternatives that do not quite fit the bill of grandeur fans crave.
If the highly coveted clash with Davis doesn’t come to fruition, Hearn’s attention would likely shift towards unification bouts against other prominent opponents. Currently, WBO lightweight champion Denys Berinchyk is slated to face Keyshawn Davis in early 2025, meaning he may not be available for a unification bout with Stevenson. Complicating matters further is the retirement speculation surrounding IBF champion Vasily Lomachenko, which could render him another unlikely option. Such a landscape underscores the hurdles Hearn faces in securing high-profile matchups.
Stevenson’s professional record stands at an impressive 22-0, showcasing not only his talent but also his hunger to unify the division. A lack of suitable opponents could stunt his career growth and frustrate fans eagerly awaiting his next move. Carrying the torch for potential unification fights can be a daunting task, especially when the most viable candidates are embroiled in their own commitments or retirement discussions.
Amidst talks of bigger fights, Stevenson has a scheduled bout against Floyd Schofield on February 22, 2025. For Hearn, this presents an opportunity to keep Stevenson active and engaged in the ring while simultaneously scouting other possible opponents. However, the plan hinges on Schofield’s performance and the likelihood of facing William Zepeda in the summer post-bout. Zepeda, who faces uncertainty due to a hand injury, has been earmarked as a potential matchup for Stevenson, depending on his recovery timeline. The rest period for Zepeda could stretch up to eight weeks, putting additional strain on Hearn’s timeline for matching Stevenson with elite opponents.
The pressing concern for Hearn is ensuring Stevenson remains active and does not sit idle. The urgency reflects a desire to maximize the return on his two-fight agreement with Matchroom Boxing and solidify Stevenson’s status as a contender in a crowded division. The clock is ticking, and while Stevenson’s skills are undeniable, the industry dynamics could leave him yearning for the spotlight when high-profile matches against established names dwindle.
While Eddie Hearn aims to secure significant bouts for Stevenson in 2025, the complexities surrounding potential opponents overshadow these plans. As negotiations unfold and timelines shift, boxing fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Stevenson’s legacy hangs in the balance, hinging predominantly on the momentum of promotional backing and the willingness of his potential opponents to step into the ring. For Stevenson, it’s not just about securing fights; it is about crafting his narrative in a sport where the next heavyweight clash could define a fighter’s career for years to come. In a sport rich with history and unpredictability, what lies ahead for Stevenson is as yet uncharted—an exciting prospect for fans and a treacherous road for the champions themselves.