Shakur Stevenson Credits Floyd Mayweather's Pre-Fight Call for WBO Title Victory
In a stunning revelation, undefeated boxing sensation Shakur Stevenson disclosed that he received a pivotal phone call from legendary fighter Floyd Mayweather just moments before stepping into the ring to face Teofimo Lopez. This motivational boost preceded Stevenson's dominant 12-round performance at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden, where he captured the WBO super-lightweight world title.
From Featherweight to Four-Division Champion
Stevenson's remarkable journey began in the 126 lb featherweight division, and he has now successfully climbed to the 140-pound category to secure this latest championship. With this victory, the 28-year-old American has cemented his status as a four-division champion, drawing inevitable comparisons to boxing greats like his mentor, Floyd Mayweather.
However, Stevenson was quick to dismiss these parallels, emphasizing his unique identity. "I'm the first Shakur Stevenson, but Floyd Mayweather's my guy. He called me right before the fight," Stevenson stated. "He always texts me. He told me that he was proud of me before the fight happened. Floyd is my family; I got a lot of love for Floyd, but I'm the first Shakur Stevenson."
Calling Out Conor Benn with a Rehydration Clause
Fresh off his decisive victory over the 28-year-old Lopez, Stevenson immediately set his sights on a new challenge, calling out Britain's Conor Benn for a potential bout. Benn, 29, has a notable history, having twice fought Chris Eubank Jr., 36, in the 160 lb middleweight division last year, losing in April but winning the rematch in November.
Stevenson has insisted that Benn comply with a specific condition if they are to fight: a 10 lb rehydration clause, similar to what Benn agreed to in his bouts with Eubank. "If he's not going to agree, then we probably won't fight. So he's just wasting time. We'll see," Stevenson remarked. "But, I'm a businessman at the end of the day, like I say, he did a rehydration clause with Chris Eubank when Chris Eubank was in the ring half dead."
Benn, who has vowed to drop back down to welterweight where he hasn't competed in three years, responded from a treadmill, "Shakur, Wembley, locked in. Be ready. You want the rehydration clause; you have to pay." This indicates that while Benn is open to the fight and the clause, it will come at a significant financial cost.
Future Fights and Business Moves
Beyond the potential Benn showdown, Stevenson is actively exploring other high-profile matchups. He is currently in talks to face WBA champion Rolly Romero, 30, and is also eyeing a mega-fight with Ryan Garcia, 27, later this year. These discussions highlight Stevenson's strategic approach to his career, balancing athletic prowess with savvy business acumen.
The victory at Madison Square Garden not only added another title to Stevenson's growing collection but also solidified his reputation as one of boxing's most formidable and marketable stars. As he navigates future negotiations, including the contentious rehydration clause with Benn, Stevenson remains focused on carving out his own legacy, distinct from comparisons to past legends.
