In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of boxing, matchups between rising stars and seasoned champions often create ripples of excitement. One such anticipated bout in the lightweight division is the clash between Floyd Schofield Jr. and WBC World Lightweight Champion Shakur Stevenson. Why? Because both the fighters represent a clash of contrasting styles and strategies. While the Jersey City native is known for his defensive prowess and tactical brilliance, the 18-0, 12 KO fighter’s aggressive approach and explosiveness could pose a serious challenge.

As whispers of this heavily anticipated fight grow louder, the legendary boxer-turned-promoter, Oscar De La Hoya has stepped forward with a bold prediction on how the young prospect might fare against a polished and experienced fighter like Stevenson. With both fighters bringing unique skill sets to the ring, the face-off on February 22, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has all the ingredients for a high-stakes, thrilling encounter. Moreover, the fight will be featured on the undercard of the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol rematch. According to De La Hoya, the fight could redefine the future trajectory of both fighters, particularly Schofield, whose career is on the rise. What did he say? Let’s hear him out!

De La Hoya breaks down Floyd Schofield’s winning strategy

Recently, Oscar De La Hoya, the head of Golden Boy Promotions shared his thoughts on Schofield’s chances against Stevenson in an exclusive interview with Marcos from Fight Hub TV. Right after that, fighthubtv hopped onto Instagram and shared a clip of the Golden Boy with a caption that read, “🚨The explosiveness, the speed, the IQ, I think Floyd has a great shot!”- @oscardelahoya Do you think Schofield has a shot to beat Stevenson? What does he have to do to beat Stevenson? #BoxingNews #StevensonSchofield”. 

In the interview, De La Hoya begins by expressing his belief and shows confidence in Schofield’s ability to challenge Stevenson. He highlighted Schofield’s key attributes—speed, power, and exceptional footwork—which, according to him, make Schofield a formidable opponent. “Floyd doesn’t fight head first. He’s a fast puncher. He’s a strong puncher. His reflexes are cat-like. He’s a fighter who fights tall.” De La Hoya stated, adding that Schofield’s ability to fight tall and apply pressure with a consistent jab could be the deciding factor in this matchup.

Not just that. De La Hoya repeatedly emphasized the critical role of the jab, referring to it as the cornerstone of success against Stevenson’s style. According to him, mastering the jab is not only essential for Schofield, but it also has historically been the key against fighters like Stevenson and Mayweather, who rely on defensive prowess and counter-punching.

He noted that Schofield’s superior stance and IQ could counter Stevenson’s defensive tactics. “A lot of fighters make the mistake crouching down which gives Shakur the advantage of landing the jab to your head, easily. Because if they’re fighting tall then, it’s like them looking from the outside, looking in. So yeah, they’re very smart boxers, but there’s ways of beating that style.” De La Hoya concluded.

The interview however had a lot more going on. The 51-year-old delved into several other significant topics, offering his insights on Ryan Garcia’s return to the ring and expressing skepticism about the possibility of a rematch with Devin Haney. Speaking with Marcos Villegas, De La Hoya shared updates and opinions on a range of issues, including the sale of Ring Magazine to HE Turki Alalshikh.

He also discussed the likelihood of Garcia’s proposed exhibition match in Japan. Additionally, he commented on the clash between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach, providing valuable perspectives on the fighters’ strategies and what fans can expect.

Looking ahead: What’s at stake?

Shakur Stevenson who is all set to face rising star Floyd Schofield Jr. was originally scheduled to defend his title against mandatory challenger interim WBC lightweight champion, William Zepeda. However, Stevenson had to change his plans after Zepeda suffered an arm injury during his recent fight with Tevin Farmer on November 16 in The Venue Riyadh Season, Saudi Arabia. And Schofield, eager for the opportunity, stepped in to replace Zepeda.

The Golden Boy head honcho, Schofield’s promoter, initially was not in favor of the matchup, citing Schofield’s lack of championship experience. However, Schofield’s father strongly advocated for the fight, ultimately convincing De La Hoya to green-light it. Despite his reservations, De La Hoya praised Schofield’s ambition and mentality, calling him a “throwback fighter” and one of his favorites.

So far, the Golden Boy Promotions has been instrumental in facilitating marquee matchups, and De La Hoya’s faith in Schofield hints at his confidence in the young fighter’s capabilities. So, what do you think about Oscar De La Hoya’s strategy for Schofield? Which fighter’s style do you think will prevail in this high-stakes matchup?