Shakur Stevenson ‘finalising’ new promotional deal
Shakur Stevenson (25-0, 11 KOs) cemented his place as one of the most talented boxers in the world when he dominated Teofimo Lopez at Madison Square Garden on January 31, 2026, to become the WBO super lightweight champion. Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated is reporting that Stevenson is working towards finalising a deal with Zuffa Boxing, one that will make the boxing world take notice.
Shakur Stevenson dominates Lopez and targets big fights
Shakur Stevenson’s future is something that has been heavily rumoured since his win over Lopez. After that victory, which saw Stevenson win The Ring and WBO super lightweight titles, he was stripped of his WBC lightweight belt.
Stevenson had previously been with Matchroom Boxing for a short time, but now it appears Stevenson is working towards finalising a deal with Zuffa Boxing. This would be a huge boost for Dana White and Zuffa, signing a fighter of Stevenson’s ilk. It appears Shakur has received other offers, but the guaranteed money from Zuffa appears to be too much to ignore.
The future for Shakur Stevenson
Stevenson is the current WBO 140 champion. Zuffa’s initial stance on not wanting to work with sanctioning bodies appears to be softening, with the signings of Jai Opetaia, Richardson Hitchins, and the likely signing of Stevenson.
Signing with Zuffa likely means Stevenson will be moving back to 135lbs, with Zuffa recognising eight weight classes. The WBA and WBC titles remain vacant, with Raymond Muratalla and Abdullah Mason holding the IBF and WBO titles, respectively.
A fight against Muratalla would be a fascinating clash of styles. Could Zuffa do what others have failed to do, and make a fight between Stevenson and the WBA lightweight champion in recess, Gervonta Davis, who is rumoured to be returning to action later this year?
Who would you like to see Shakur Stevenson face?
