Muratalla Wants To Fight Denys Berinchyk Or Shakur Stevenson
Top lightweight contender Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (21-0, 16KO) is looking to face WBC champion Shakur “Fearless” Stevenson (22-0, 10KO) or WBO champion Denys Berinchyk (19-0, 9KO).
On July 14, Danger stepped into the ring and defended his ranking with a unanimous decision victory over former IBF junior lightweight champion Tevin Farmer. The Californian had to bite down and grind out a victory in the second half with sheer volume and power shots.
In typical fashion, after a victory, the question becomes what’s next. During the post-fight interview in the ring, Muratalla didn’t hesitate to drop names when asked about the plan for the future.
“I want the champions next. Berinchyk called out my name. I’m calling his name right now, Berinchyk. If I can’t get Berinchyk, then I’ll take Shakur.”
WHICH FIGHT IS MORE VIABLE
According to Muratalla, when Stevenson fought for possibly the last time under the Top Rank banner, he wanted to be the opponent instead of Artem Harutyunyan. Despite wanting the fight, it’s unlikely the powers that be will allow him to fight the WBC champion, who’s no longer with the company.
When looking at Berinchyk, that fight has some legs. Since defeating three-divisional champion Emanuel Navarrete, the Ukrainian has been called out by all the top guys. In addition, his promoter, Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions has an excellent working relationship with Top Rank’s CEO, Bob Arum.
A title shot is within range for the Californian, who’s ranked #2 by the WBC and WBO. He has grown very nicely as a fighter under the watchful eye of famous trainer Robert Garcia. It will be interesting to see how things play out over the next couple of months.
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