In the fast-paced and competitive world of boxing, rivalries are the lifeblood that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. One such rivalry that has been gaining momentum is between the undisputed Lightweight champion, Devin Haney, and two-division champion, Shakur Stevenson. The two young fighters have been engaging in a war of words online, after “The Dream’s’ title defense. However, Haney has surprised the boxing world by announcing his decision to move up in weight to face WBC super Lightweight champion Regis Prograis on October 28, foregoing the potential face-off with Stevenson.
Despite his accomplishments, Haney’s decision to move up to the super Lightweight division comes as a surprise to many. Rumors suggest that he set his sights on Prograis’ title, seeking to add another championship to his collection. However, Haney also made efforts to retain his Lightweight title, leading to a petition to the WBC. This move means he would potentially leave behind the much-anticipated clash with mandatory challenger Shakur Stevenson.
Shakur Stevenson slams WBC as fans rally in disbelief at Haney’s weight class escapade
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The two-division champion took to social media to express his disappointment with the WBC’s stance. He called out the organization for allowing Haney to move up in weight while still holding on to his belts, citing that it defied logic and fairness.
“I respect the WBC and Mauricio but cmon now y’all can’t allow him not to fight me move up in weight and hold the belts. That don’t even make sense!” he wrote.
I respect the WBC and Mauricio but cmon now y’all can’t allow him not to fight me move up in weight and hold the belts.. That don’t even make sense! https://t.co/vg1dNE0d5M
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) July 28, 2023
As the announcement unfolded, fans took to social media, voicing their disappointment and dissatisfaction with the WBC’s decision. Moreover many felt that the organization’s ruling favored the Lightweight champion, potentially depriving Stevenson of a well-deserved title shot.
A user pointed out that it was quite obvious that Haney did not want to stay active in the Lightweight division.
told you he ain’t getting active fr , what you surprised for ?
— BLOCK★ (@Mixon_Red) July 28, 2023
Another user thought Haney was ducking Stevenson to face Prograis moving up a weight class.
Wow!!!! He running away from you 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
— Murci Vinci (@DethroneRecords) July 28, 2023
Moreover, a user agreed with Stevenson and was surprised how Haney was allowed to retain his belts despite moving up in weight.
Facts how they gonna allow Haney to hold belts at two weight classes shit is dumb as hell. https://t.co/GxoAuRHfNP
— Mr Catch A Body (@OpinionatedGlob) July 28, 2023
However, a user argued that Stevenson should have taken the 25% split offer initially made to him by Haney’s team. This would have allowed him to get into bigger fights if he managed to beat ‘The Dream’.
You declined the 25/75 split. You could’ve took that – won the fight – and moved on the bigger fights & payouts but your focus was on money despite being the underdog. Ego is the enemy. https://t.co/d0VKteTUsw
— Ace 💯 (@Ace_Daygo) July 29, 2023
A user also thought that Stevenson did not have the right to complain after declining the offer.
You did decline to fight him at the end of the day
— Dre Ghost (@DreGhost___) July 28, 2023
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A considerable segment of the boxing community rallied behind Stevenson, supporting his outcry against the WBC’s decision. In addition, they argued that Stevenson had earned his shot at the WBC Lightweight title fair and square. However, there was also a significant contingent of fans who stood by Devin Haney and supported his decision to move up in weight. They believed that Haney had every right to seek new challenges and opportunities in the super Lightweight division. While the fans’ emotions were raw and divided, they all shared the common desire to witness the best take on the best, regardless of weight class or political decisions.
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What did you think about Stevenson’s disapproval of the WBC’s decision to allow Haney to move up? Let us know in the comments.
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