Shakur Stevenson shocked the boxing world by announcing his retirement from the professional sport following a controversial decision by the World Boxing Organization (WBO). The 26-year-old Olympic silver medalist and current holder of the WBC lightweight title expressed his frustration on social media and suggested that his career in the ring may be coming to an end.
Who is Shakur Stevenson?
Shakur Stevenson better known as “sugar” Stevenson is an American professional boxer born June 28, 1997 in Newark, New Jersey. He is considered one of the top boxing prospects in boxing today and is currently the WBO lightweight champion of the world.
Why is he retiring?
The WBO recently declared that the vacant lightweight title would be contested by Emanuel Navarrete and Denys Berinchyk, leaving Stevenson out of contention despite his previously expressed interest in the title. This decision, combined with the confirmation of a fight between Vasily Lomachenko and George Kambosos for the IBF lightweight title, has generated speculation about the future of Stevenson’s career.
It also appears that Stevenson’s promoter, Top Rank, is betting on other fighters and overlooking the talented young boxer. Although, the young boxer’s contract expires this year and it appears that his promoter is not prioritizing his career.
Stevenson called the WBO’s decision “disgusting” and stated that he would not continue in a “weak boxing game.” Many speculate that Stevenson’s decision to retire is a direct response to this snub from the organization.
Shakur Stevenson’s potential and raw talent are undeniable, and it would be a loss to the sport of boxing if he were to walk away at such a young age. Only time will tell what will happen to this talented athlete, in the meantime the boxing world will be watching him closely.