Shakur Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion, is facing criticism for his lackluster performances in recent fights. Despite his impressive amateur background and rapid progression in the professional ranks, Stevenson has failed to captivate the boxing community with his fighting style. Many observers have noted his tendency to play it safe in the ring, resulting in lackluster and unexciting bouts.
In order to elevate his popularity and attract more fans, Stevenson needs a “Floyd Mayweather moment,” according to boxing analyst Teddy Atlas. He points to Mayweather’s early career fight against Diego Corrales as a defining moment that turned the tide for the future boxing superstar. By taking risks and going for a knockout against Artem Harutyunyan in his upcoming title defense, Stevenson could potentially make a lasting impression on the boxing world.
Critics have highlighted Stevenson’s tendency to run in fights, making him difficult to watch for many fans. While some appreciate his defensive skills and technical prowess, others find his style boring and unappealing. Stevenson’s reluctance to engage in toe-to-toe battles and his preference for outboxing opponents have drawn criticism from both fans and experts alike.
Despite being hailed as a “next-level guy” by boxing expert Chris Algieri, Stevenson’s performances have been inconsistent at best. His struggles against opponents like Edwin De Los Santos and Shuichiro Yoshino have raised doubts about his ability to dominate the lightweight division. While Algieri acknowledges Stevenson’s potential to beat top fighters, he also emphasizes the need for the young champion to showcase his skills more convincingly in the ring.
According to Algieri, Stevenson’s defensive prowess is commendable, but his inability to deliver exciting fights has alienated many casual fans. While purists may appreciate his technical proficiency, the lack of action and excitement in Stevenson’s bouts have hindered his ability to gain widespread popularity. Some critics have gone as far as labeling him as a “boring” fighter, citing his risk-averse approach as a major drawback in his quest for stardom.
As Stevenson prepares to defend his title against Harutyunyan, the pressure is on for him to deliver a standout performance that will resonate with fans and critics alike. By embracing a more aggressive and entertaining style, Stevenson could potentially silence his detractors and establish himself as a true superstar in the sport of boxing. While the path to stardom may be challenging, Stevenson’s willingness to take risks and push his limits could ultimately lead to a breakthrough moment that defines his legacy in the ring.