Shakur Stevenson’s move to Zuffa Boxing has shaken up the world of boxing, but now the pound-for-pound star has offered his response to a call-out from the opponent who he had been rumoured to face upon his debut with Dana White’s promotion.
The unbeaten star has been linked to a clash with WBO welterweight world champion Devin Haney throughout 2026, but it seems as though ‘The Dream’ may instead proceed with a showdown against mandatory challenger Keyshawn Davis.
Meanwhile, Stevenson’s move to Zuffa Boxing saw him tipped for an ‘in-house’ fight in his first appearance with the rapidly-expanding outfit, with former WBA super-lightweight world champion Jose ‘El Rayo’ Valenzuela being the man linked as an opponent.
On X, Valenzuela welcomed the Newark southpaw to Zuffa Boxing whilst simultaneously announcing himself as the 29-year-old’s ‘tune up fight’.
“Welcome to Zuffa Shakur, I’m your tune up fight.”
Quick to respond, Stevenson immediately shut down those whispers, instantly informing Valenzuela that he would not be getting such an opportunity and distancing himself from that proposal.
No you’re notttt lol I have to go say yes remember that https://t.co/yTlZMFVigE
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) July 14, 2026
“No you’re notttt, LOL, I have to go say yes, remember that.”
Stevenson has also denied to publicly deny any possibility of Valenzuela being his next dance partner, declaring that his Zuffa deal will not restrict him from fights with non-Zuffa fighters.
“I’m turning the fight down publicly right now just in case that they do come to the table and say, ‘Oh, we want to fight Rayo.’ Shakur will not be fighting Rayo. That will not be happening.”
Instead, Stevenson remains hopeful that the Haney clash could take place next, with the latter having agreed to his suggestion of a 144lb catchweight affair.
