The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as a potential super-fight looms between two of the sport's brightest stars. But will it happen on everyone's terms?
Shakur Stevenson, the 28-year-old WBO super-lightweight champion, has just one condition for a bout with Devin Haney, the 27-year-old WBO welterweight titleholder. Stevenson, fresh off his dominant win over Teofimo Lopez, is willing to step up in weight, but he's not giving an inch without a demand of his own.
The catch? Stevenson wants Haney to agree to a catchweight of 144lbs, a weight that Ryan Garcia has already expressed interest in fighting at. This is a significant detail, as Haney, a three-division world champion, has looked formidable since moving up to 147lbs. His victories over Vasyl Lomachenko and Regis Prograis at lower weights are a testament to his skill, but can he maintain his dominance at a higher weight class?
And here's where it gets controversial. Stevenson, in a conversation with Stephen A. Smith, hinted at a potential loophole, suggesting Haney could potentially avoid a rehydration clause. This could be a strategic move, as rehydration clauses are often used to ensure fighters don't gain an unfair advantage by rehydrating excessively between weigh-ins and the fight.
Stevenson's exact words were, 'I think the Devin Haney fight is a big fight... With Ryan Garcia, he's just said he would come down to 144lbs. So, if [Haney] comes to do that, and it makes sense, let's do it.'
Now, the question remains: Will the WBO sanction this fight, potentially making Stevenson a five-weight world champion? And more importantly, will Haney agree to these terms?
What do you think? Is this a fair demand by Stevenson, or should he be more accommodating? The boxing world awaits your thoughts in the comments!
