Shakur Stevenson recently disclosed that he is contemplating signing as a free agent with either Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing or Mayweather Promotions. This decision comes after turning down a lucrative $15 million, five-fight offer from Top Rank, with whom he still harbors bitter feelings for not securing desired bouts against Vasily Lomachenko and Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis.
In a revealing interview, Stevenson mentioned a perceived conspiracy by Top Rank to tarnish his image by showing fans leaving the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, during his fight with Artem Harutyunyan. He believes this was retaliation for not re-signing with Top Rank, further deepening his dissatisfaction with the promotional company.
Eddie Hearn, promoter for Matchroom Boxing, has shown great interest in adding the WBC lightweight champion to his stable. This move could bolster Matchroom’s presence in the U.S. boxing scene, especially following their recent signing of IBF welterweight champion, Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis. While Stevenson may not be on the same level as some of Hearn’s past signees like Anthony Joshua, his addition could bring value for short-term high-profile fights.
Despite his potential, Stevenson has yet to prove himself as a pay-per-view (PPV) attraction. Any promotional agreement with Hearn or Mayweather Promotions would hinge on securing lucrative matchups against top-tier opponents like Gervonta Davis or Vasily Lomachenko. Without the ability to draw PPV numbers, Stevenson’s market value may diminish, especially if he faces subpar competition.
Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s involvement in Stevenson’s decision-making adds another layer of complexity. While Mayweather has offered guidance and support, signing Stevenson with the intent of feeding him easy opponents to artificially boost his profile may backfire. Authenticity is crucial in building a sustainable fan base, and fans are unlikely to buy into manufactured stardom.
Shakur Stevenson finds himself at a pivotal juncture in his career, weighing the benefits of joining established promotional entities like Matchroom Boxing or Mayweather Promotions. His decision will not only impact his immediate fight opportunities but also influence his long-term trajectory in the boxing landscape. It is essential for Stevenson to carefully evaluate his choices and align himself with a promoter who values his talent and is committed to fostering his growth authentically.