Shakur Stevenson v Denys Berinchyk Possible If Haney Vacates WBO Belt
There are some potential fights that boxing fans could see happen in 2023. One of them may be two-divisional champion Shakur “Fearless” Stevenson (19-0, 9KO) fighting Denys Berinchyk (17-0, 9KO) for the WBO title.
Stevenson’s woes trying to get a top contender in the ring have played out in real-time on social media. Looking to get back in the ring soon, he has found no takers and is beginning to run out of options. As things seem a little bleak for the talented former champion, Top Rank head honcho Bob Arum may have delivered some good news.
During an interview with Boxing Social, Arum revealed that undisputed champion Devin Haney is leaving the division soon. This would open the door of opportunity for Stevenson to fight for a vacant title.
STEVENSON COULD GO THE WBO ROUTE
When looking at the division, there are a few options considering Stevenson’s ranking status. Yet, the WBO route would be the betting favorite, as he holds the #2 slot.
Former unified champion Vasyl Lomachenko holds the #1 spot and is fighting the undisputed champion next. If he losses, that puts Stevenson in the top slot, and, as previously mentioned, Haney’s departure leaves the WBO to go down the list of fighters.
AN EASY FIGHT TO MAKE
Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz would be next in line, but he has already turned down an offer to fight Stevenson. Team Cruz will likely not take the call, leaving Berinchyk as the most logical option.
Berinchyk fights under the banner of Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions. In addition, he enjoys an extremely good working relationship with Top Rank, making it an easy fight to make.
It is worth mentioning that a Lomachenko victory sets up a big in-house fight with the two-divisional champion. Either outcome is good news for Stevenson heading into 2023.
By: Bo Bland
