Shakur Stevenson says his Skill Would Overcome Tank Davis in a Fight
Boxing luminaries were out in full force at Barclay’s Center to witness Gervonta “Tank” Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) defend the WBA Regular lightweight title with a sixth-round TKO over mandatory challenger Rolando “Rolly” Romero (14-1, 12 KOs). After fighting carefully for large chunks of the contest, the defending champ ended matters by putting Romero down with a sensational counter left hand.
A common question asked of Davis afterward is who he wants to face next. He was non-committal during the post-fight news conference, simply stating his willingness to battle anyone at 135.
Among the many active boxers in attendance was the current unified junior lightweight champ, Shakur Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs). Speaking to the media immediately after Davis’ win, he gave insight into what it takes to defeat the hard-hitting lightweight champ.
IT’S ALL ABOUT FOCUS
“When you fight Tank, you gotta stay alert for twelve rounds. The only person that’s really gonna stay alert and be on top of their game for twelve rounds straight is me, and I feel that will be the best and biggest fight in boxing.”
Davis has acquired mainstream status. He is a legit cash cow and the most visible fighter from 130-140 pounds. Stevenson’s star is on the rise following a dominant win over Oscar Valdez to unify the WBC and WBO belts at 130 in April 2022. As slick as they come, the junior lightweight champ’s skillset is on par with anyone in the sport right now. Only 24 and big for his division, he has the frame to move up in weight with ease.
The two have known one another going back to their amateur days and have sparred previously. Both are visible and popular throughout social media. Fan interest for that match would be very high. It would be a fascinating contrast in styles between the usually aggressive and power-hitting Davis and the boxing IQ of Stevenson.
IF IT MAKES DOLLARS, IT MAKES SENSE
Some will note that because Davis is with Mayweather Promotions and Stevenson is with Top Rank, that could be a stumbling block. But as it’s often said, pro boxing is about the bottom line. If a fight can make a lot of revenue, animosity goes out the window. Davis – Stevenson at 135 has the potential to be a big-money showdown.
That potential fight comes with time and the correct marketing. More importantly, both men have to keep winning to build up interest. Stevenson believes that a fight with Davis is inevitable and if they ever face each other, he is confident he would come out on top.
“I’m more skillful than Tank. He may not like me saying it, but it’s the truth. I feel like I’m a more skillful fighter than he is. I don’t go down in rounds; I come back”.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
