Shakur Stevenson passes a major test with flying colors then calls out all of the champions at featherweight!
Top undefeated prospect Shakur Stevenson took on a major test against former title contender Christopher Diaz.
The early rounds saw the younger fighter pretty much do whatever he wanted. Everything was working; the feints, the angles and the combination punching. Diaz was trying to get within range, but Stevenson’s defense and hand speed kept him off balance.
In the middle rounds, the former title contender would use his experience by stepping on the lead foot of his southpaw opponent. This tactic would make it a phone booth type of fight and surprisingly, the former Olympic silver medalist was very comfortable in that area.
Stevenson would stay in the pocket landing good body shots followed by a sneaky uppercut. The veteran fighter would also have some success landing a few counters. Although, he would get caught with three- and four-punch combinations in return.
Things would continue to be the same going into the end of the fight. Stevenson’s hand speed, foot work and flashy combination punching prevented Diaz from finding his rhythm.
In what should have been a difficult bout against a very tough title contender was relatively easy coasting to an unanimous decision.
In the post fight interview, Stevenson did not hesitate to say he is ready for anyone of the champions at featherweight. When asked who he would want specifically, he mentioned for the fourth time in so many weeks, IBF champion Josh Warrington!
The sixth ranking WBO prospect is primed for a title opportunity some time this year in a very deep featherweight division.
By: Garrisson Bland
