Shakur Stevenson, the WBC lightweight champion, is set to defend his title against Artem Harutyunyan on July 6th in Newark, New Jersey. This fight will take place at the Prudential Center and will be televised on ESPN. Harutyunyan, with a record of 12-1 and 7 KOs, is not considered a top contender and is coming off a loss in his last fight. This has raised concerns among fans as Stevenson had the option to face the more highly ranked Raymond Muratalla, who holds an impressive record of 19-0 with 16 KOs.
This bout against Harutyunyan marks the final fight of Stevenson’s contract with promotional company Top Rank. There are speculations about whether Stevenson is looking to secure a positive ending to his association with Top Rank by choosing a seemingly less challenging opponent. It is unclear if Top Rank will look to renew Stevenson’s contract or if they are ready to part ways with him after this fight. Stevenson’s performance in this fight could potentially impact his market value and future opportunities with other promotional companies.
Stevenson’s fighting style has often been criticized for being less entertaining, with some labeling him as a “runner” in the ring. This has led to difficulties in securing matchups with top fighters who may be reluctant to face him due to his elusive style. The lack of excitement in his fights has raised concerns about his potential as a pay-per-view attraction. Stevenson’s last fight against Edwin De Los Santos received negative feedback, emphasizing the importance of a standout performance in his upcoming bout to improve his marketability.
The decision to face Harutyunyan instead of a more challenging opponent like Muratalla has been met with criticism from fans and experts alike. Stevenson’s choice to opt for a seemingly easier matchup in his final fight under Top Rank’s banner may have long-term implications for his career. Facing a lower-ranked opponent coming off a loss raises questions about Stevenson’s willingness to take on tougher challenges and his competitive spirit.
Shakur Stevenson’s upcoming title defense against Artem Harutyunyan presents both opportunities and challenges for the young champion. With his contract with Top Rank coming to an end, Stevenson’s performance in this fight could shape his future in the sport. The choice of opponent and the potential implications of this matchup will be closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike. Stevenson will need to deliver a compelling performance to silence his critics and solidify his position as a top contender in the lightweight division.