New WBC super-featherweight champion Oscar Valdez has sent a stern warning to potential opponent Shakur Stevenson. The undefeated champion reminded the American that he is not scared and is willing to make the fight happen.
Valdez became the WBC super-featherweight champion after his vicious knockout of Miguel Berchelt. Since then, rumors have circulated about his first defense at super-featherweight.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Valdez spoke to ESPN and gave his honest take on challenger Shakur Stevenson. He said, “Shakur Stevenson has been talking, has been talking for a long time. Calling me out, you know. Fighter who’s ducking me. So, in no case, I’m not scared of no fighter, and I just want to fight.”
“I’m not scared of no fighter, I duck no fighter… So let’s do it!” @OscarValdez56 told @MaxKellerman that he’s willing to fight @ShakurStevenson next. pic.twitter.com/XEmIknL58r
— ESPN Ringside (@ESPNRingside) March 2, 2021
This is in light of Stevenson’s call-out of the Mexican after the Berchelt victory. Clearly, the newly crowned champion fancies his chances against the American. He then added, “The best have to fight the best, and if people want to see us fight, I’ll gladly do it.”
This showed Valdez’s desire to make the fights the fans want to see rather than protecting his belt and record. Thus, it is a breath of fresh air for fans who want to see the best fighters face each other.
READ: Roy Jones Jr.’s Citizenship: What Nationality Is the Legendary Boxer?
Why Oscar Valdez vs. Shakur Stevenson makes sense
The undefeated Valdez moved up from featherweight for the title fight. However, he proved he could cut it at the higher weight class with a fantastic performance. So why should he face Shakur Stevenson and not a mandatory?
Stevenson is a big name in the lower divisions and, like Valdez, moved up from featherweight to super-featherweight. So they match evenly. However, the young American has a vastly distinct style to Valdez.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Moreover, Stevenson often comes under criticism for not fighting any big names. Therefore, a fight against Valdez gives him a chance to shut down those rumors. The belt would be just the cherry on the cake. In addition, it would make more sense than to wait for the Jamel Herring vs. Carl Frampton bout.
If Valdez wants to prove he means business in the division and was not looking for one big fight, then the Stevenson fight allows him to do that. Finally, fans will benefit from watching that bout and it could prove to be a profitable affair for both.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What do you make of the comments from Oscar Valdez? Do you think he has what it takes to beat Shakur Stevenson?
READ: Adrien Broner Net Worth: Is the Millionaire Actually Broke?