Shakur Stevenson is setting the stage for what could be the most significant fight in boxing by challenging Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis.
As he seeks to elevate his profile for a shot at the lightweight world champion of the WBA, Stevenson has openly promised Davis a “rude awakening” should the opportunity arise for them to face each other.
He anticipates that their match, a classic showdown between a slugger and a boxer – both undefeated – would become a landmark event in the sport.
However, Davis, who has not fought in over a year and is expected to face Frank Martin later this year, dismisses the potential challenge from Stevenson as an easy fight due to Stevenson‘s perceived technical limitations.
In an interview on Naji’s podcast, Cigar Talks, Davis mocked Stevenson‘s abilities when asked if the 26-year-old challenger would be his toughest opponent to date:
“Hell no. Show me something he has done. Show me. His power isn’t scandalous. What defense? He’s just lacking,” Stevenson said.
Stevenson Confident Despite Criticism
These remarks did not sit well with Stevenson, who took to his X account (formerly Twitter) to respond to the criticisms, asserting that it would be “a rude awakening when fight night comes.”
While such exchanges have been common between them for months, experts believe these provocations might finally lead to a face-off, giving Stevenson a chance to prove whether his zeal is sufficient to challenge one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Regarding the potential fight, Todd duBoef, President of Top Rank, indicated that it’s only a matter of time before it happens as their careers are on a “collision course.” He stated: “I hope so. I think it makes sense.”
In addition, Bob Arum expressed confidence in Stevenson‘s capabilities to defeat Davis, but emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with ‘Tank’ himself.
In a conversation on the podcast Million Dollaz Worth of Game, Stevenson acknowledged Davis‘s stature as the PPV star, noting the financial dynamics at play.”
Who am I to make an offer to the biggest star in boxing? What can I offer him? It doesn’t make sense. It would have to come from his side, from his team, to want to make a fight,” Stevenson said.
As anticipation builds, the boxing community is keen to see if this verbal sparring will translate into an actual match-up, potentially setting up one of the most intriguing fights in recent boxing history.
