Shakur Stevenson Open to Facing Floyd Schofield on July 6
While he has yet to announce an opponent, WBC lightweight champion “Fearless” Shakur Stevenson (21-0, 10 KO’s) is reported to be returning to action this July 6. Over the past several months, Stevenson has been extremely vocal about his belief that no fighters want to fight him. Oddly though, he said this after turning down professional duels with two-division champion Devin Haney, Frank Martin and rising contender Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (17-0, 12 KO’s).
Stevenson and Schofield began woofing back and forth with one another via social media. Yet, rather than saying he would fight Kid Austin straight out, Fearless proposed that Schofield first face red hot prospect Abdullah Mason. Clearly this was not a path he wanted as Schofield has only shunned that potential route. Now, it appears that Stevenson is rethinking his options.
REPUTATION RENOVATION
Despite being one of more recognizable names in the sport at this time, Stevenson is in something of a reputation slump. A huge part of this stems from his abysmal performance in his last outing versus Edwin De Los Santos. When in the ring, Fearless turned in a showing that could have been a track and field event or a child’s session of hide-and-go-seek.
Stevenson doggedly insists that he was injured while refusing to declare the injury or show proof. Fearless has also shown zero interest in clearing the air by simply re-matching De Los Santos. Perhaps a showdown with Schofield is just what the doctor ordered.
Kid Austin, ranked #4 (WBA), is an advancing talent with clear skills, an aggressive style and drive to seek out big challenges. Due to his come-forward action style, Schofield could be an ideal opponent for Stevenson to show that he is not the fear-filled boxer that he’s being labeled. Another poor performance however, and Fearless would find himself the laughing stock of the division. So, let’s wait and see who Stevenson does actually pick to compete against this summer.
