WBO drops purse bid for Jamel Herring versus Shakur Stevenson bout
In early August, the WBO formally announced that they canceled the purse bid between WBO junior lightweight champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring (23-2, 11 KO’s) and “Fearless” Shakur Stevenson (16-0, 8 KO’s). This was done because the two teams were able to reach an agreement without actually going to the purse bid. With the announcement, we are one step closer to this fight actually taking place.
DISINTERESTED WARRIORS
While the bout should be a great fight, it’s funny that neither fighter wants to face one another. Ironically, both of them wanted to face WBC World junior lightweight champion Oscar Valdez (29-0, 23 KO’s). Semper Fi would have preferred Valdez because, as he enters the final portion of his professional career, he would like to focus on unifying titles. Honestly, there is nothing wrong with this self-imposed goal.
Stevenson’s reasoning for seeking a Valdez fight is two-fold. To begin, he simply doesn’t believe that Herring is on his level and has no desire to fight him. The New Jersey native has repeatedly stated that he plans on easily taking Semper Fi apart when they go head-to-head. Aside from that, Fearless believes that he has unfinished business with Valdez. In fact, Stevenson has been chasing a fight with the Mexican champion since they both resided in the featherweight division.
It will be interesting to see if Fearless can make Herring look as simple and plain as he thinks he is. Or, will the elder fighter force the young upstart to eat his disrespectful words? Only time will tell, but either way 3kingsboxing will be here to report the news.
By: Bakari Simpson
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