The Lightweight division in boxing has long been regarded as one of the most stacked weight classes in the sport. Filled with explosive talent and fierce competition, it has captivated fans with its electrifying matchups and the emergence of exceptional fighters. Among the top contenders vying for supremacy is the two-division champion Shakur Stevenson who is now looking for a case to become a three-division champ.
However, he will first have to go through undisputed champion Devin Haney, who became the first undisputed Lightweight champion in the four belt ear. While his recent win over Vasyl Lomachenko might have been controversial, he is still the top guy in the division. Moreover, the rivalry between the two has transcended the boundaries of the squared circle. Both fighters have engaged in a war of words, taking shots at each other on social media and in interviews. Now, Stevenson has come out with a bold challenge for Haney expressing his frustration over the lack of ongoing negotiations.
Shakur Stevenson calls for a mandatory showdown with Devin Haney
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According to BoxingScene.com, the Olympic medalist’s team has taken matters into their own hands. In accordance with the WBC rules, they have formally contacted the body, requesting a mandatory title fight against Haney. This move underscores Stevenson’s determination to secure his shot at becoming a three-division champion. Moreover, after not seeing any progress in the negotiations, this move will certainly add some pressure on ‘The Dream’s’ camp to accelerate it.
Shakur Stevenson has written a letter to the WBC to request they order Devin Haney to defend his undisputed lightweight championship against him next ‼️
Stevenson is currently ranked #1 in the WBO, #2 in the WBC & #4 in the IBF & WBA 🥊#ShakurStevenson | #DevinHaney pic.twitter.com/y1nzOT9ZzW
— IFL TV (@IFLTV) July 11, 2023
With Stevenson’s camp now ordering the WBC to designate him as the mandatory challenger, the stage might be set for an epic showdown. However, if a bout with Haney doesn’t materialize, Stevenson might just take another former champion and a legend in the sport.
Stevenson sets sights on former champion, calling out for a “real fight”
Amid a dispute over purse split and the potential of Haney vacating the Lightweight division, Stevenson shifted his focus and called out former champion Vasiliy Lomachenko for a “real fight.” While expressing respect for Lomachenko’s previous accomplishments, Stevenson took to Twitter to propose a high-skill-level showdown between them. With Haney seemingly uninterested in a rematch with Lomachenko, Stevenson sees the Ukrainian as an ideal opponent to vie for the undisputed title.
“Yoo@VasylLomachenko Nothing but respect champ u deserved them belts I hope u healed up and everything is all good wit you. I think it’s time for a REAL high skill level chess I’m ready for a big fight champ let’s make something happen.” he wrote.
Yoo @VasylLomachenko Nothing but respect champ u deserved them belts I hope u healed up and everything is all good wit you.. I think it’s time for a REAL high skill level chess I’m ready for a big fight champ let’s make something happen 🤝
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) July 8, 2023
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The Lightweight division continues to generate buzz and anticipation, as these top-calibre fighters seek to cement their legacies. Whether Stevenson’s pursuit of Lomachenko comes to fruition or a bout with Haney is eventually negotiated, the Lightweight division promises thrilling battles that will captivate the boxing world.
Read More: Amid Purse Split Debacle, Floyd Mayweather Urges Shakur Stevenson to Fight Devin Haney
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What did you think about Stevenson contacting the WBC for a title fight against Haney? Let us know in the comments.
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