Shakur Stevenson Shocks Boxing World with Unexpected Retirement
In a move that has left the boxing community reeling, 26-year-old superstar Shakur Stevenson announced his retirement from the sport on Tuesday night. The New Jersey native, who had competed in three different weight classes including lightweight, featherweight, and super-featherweight, cited his dissatisfaction with boxing, referring to it as “weak.”
Stevenson, who remained undefeated throughout his career with 21 consecutive wins and 10 knockouts, captured the WBC world lightweight title in his most recent victory against Edwin De Los Santos. However, despite his success in the ring, Stevenson expressed frustration over perceived lack of opportunities and challenges within the sport.
His decision to retire was precipitated by various factors, including the absence of scheduled bouts for 2024 and his discontent with other boxers allegedly avoiding matchups with him. Stevenson had voiced his disappointment over boxers like Vasiliy Lomachenko choosing to pursue other title fights, as well as the WBO’s decision to mandate a fight between Emanuel Navarrete and Denys Berinchyk for the vacant lightweight title.
With potential blockbuster fights against Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia now seemingly obsolete, Stevenson’s departure from the sport leaves a void in the boxing landscape. The implications of his retirement on the division’s future remain uncertain, but it is clear that Stevenson’s absence will be felt by fans and fellow athletes alike.
As the boxing world adjusts to this unexpected development, the WBC and other governing bodies will undoubtedly be tasked with reshaping the division’s trajectory moving forward. Stevenson’s decision to walk away from boxing serves as a reminder of the challenges and uncertainties inherent in the sport, as well as the personal choices athletes must make in pursuit of their own paths.
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