Shakur Stevenson’s future weight is unknown after his plans were disrupted by the WBC. Although, the Newark southpaw now seems to be considering remaining at super-lightweight.
The American moved up to 140lbs and dethroned Teofimo Lopez to claim the WBO super-lightweight world title, but the undefeated sensation had planned on returning to 135lbs and defending his WBC belt thereafter.
However, the WBC then decided to strip Stevenson of his title, leaving him contemplating whether to campaign at lightweight, super-lightweight or even welterweight – though he has since ruled the last option out, at least for now.
There are a number of options for Stevenson in each of those divisions and in a fan Q&A on X, Stevenson was asked to order a list of possible opponents (Ryan Garcia, Raymond Muratalla, O’Shaquie Foster, Gary Antuanne Russell and Dalton Smith) by preference.
Stevenson revealed that Garcia would be his preferred option but also admitted that he believes fellow super-lightweight world champion Gary Antuanne Russell to be his ‘biggest threat’ at the weight.
“Out of those names, I think that Blacks and Mexicans sell the most when it comes down to selling [tickets]. So, I would say Ryan first, Muratalla second, Gary next because, out of all of them guys, he might be the biggest threat, if I am being honest with you.
“Actually, I watched Gary Russell whoop Shock’s [O’Shaquie Foster] a** before. So, I’m going to definitely choose Gary, then I’ll go with Shock and then Dalton Smith.”
Russell won the WBA super-lightweight world title against José Valenzuela last year and is coming off a tough defence against Andy Hiraoka. A match-up against Stevensons not only provides an intriguing match-up for fans, but a welcome unification.
