Stevenson Accepts the Challenge
It looks like boxing is catching fire as the year comes to a close. On social media, champions and challengers are ready to make plans for 2020.
Former two-division champion Abner Mares (31-3-1, 15ko) wasted little time challenging newly crowned WBO Featherweight champion Shakur Stevenson (13-0, 7ko). Unsurprisingly, “Fearless” Stevenson, living up to his ring alias, quickly accepted the challenge without prejudice.
This is what brings boxing fans to the table. Fans want to see the willingness to test yourself and show if you really have the goods. The young southpaw champion from Newark, New Jersey is one of the brightest stars in boxing. Pundits rave about his abilities plus, with every fight, he displays extreme maturity and uncanny ring IQ.
Fighting someone of the former champion’s caliber is a huge profile boost. Also, the experience alone is worthy of taking the risk. This is a classic young lion vs old lion, passing-of-the-torch ordeal that undoubtedly will be a fan friend bout. Furthermore, a victory would be huge for the young champion. Its this type of fight champions in the golden era would take to measure themselves. Mares, hasn’t been in the ring for over a year, but still is a bonafide challenger that commands respect inside the boxing community.
Of course, there is the one wrinkle everyone is going to look at. This would mean boxing’s two top bosses, Bob Arum and Al Haymon, would have to work together. Fear not boxing community, it’s already been proven that lower level fights are easier to make than mega fights.
3kingsboxing will continue to follow this situation an provide updated information.
By: Garrisson Bland
