By: Hans Themistode
Despite Oscar Valdez’s undefeated streak across 30 professional matches, most assume the 31-year-old will hand his WBC super featherweight belt to Shakur Stevenson without much struggle.
For now, while Valdez is widely considered Stevenson’s toughest test, most have steadfastly chosen the former Olympic silver medalist to claim the world title for his man.
For now, bookmakers have openly backed Stevenson as a big favorite. Though he’s always been praised for his otherworldly abilities, his stock hit an all-time high following his most recent trip into the ring.
On October 23, 2021, Stevenson hit Jamel Herring, forcing referee Mark Nelson to intervene at half-time of the 10th inning. While the New Jersey native has yet to be renewed, Robert Garcia remains suspicious of the ongoing story. takes place around his upcoming duel.
Like most senior coaches, the longtime coach was amazed at Stevenson’s skill. However, Garcia is reluctant to admit that Stevenson will pass through Valdez unhindered, especially considering Valdez’s legacy.
Garcia told a group of reporters: “Oscar Valdez is Mexican and you know that Mexicans come to fight. “Obviously, it was not an easy fight. Shakur is very technical, very intelligent and also has great strength. It was a very tough fight for both of them. ”
Although Garcia has admitted he will be cheering for Valdez to beat the odds and bring home the win, he also knows that’s easier said than done. Finally, the famous coach is willing to do more than simply cheer for the 31-year-old to extend his world title reign from the chair next door. As Garcia thought to himself, he believed he knew the key to Valdez’s unlikely victory.
Garcia continued: “Valdez will try to tear him down. “Shots to the body, elbows, shoulders, anywhere, that’s what he needs to do. He has a shot. ”
In the end, although Garcia lent Valdez what he believed was the key to his victory, he was unwilling to go back and pick the Mexico star to drag the win.
“I still think Shakur is the more talented fighter so I chose Shakur by decision.”
Valdez, the former world champion in the 126 kg division, has built his career with his rough and rugged style, as well as his never-ending attitude. His current poor condition is one that neither bothers him nor surprises him. In February 2021, Valdez was once again under suspicion by both the betting world and most media pundits.
In a fanless MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Stevenson was expected to be brutally beaten by former £130 player Miguel Berchelt. Undeterred by the dubious voices around him, Valdez confidently registered the biggest win of his career.
In addition to knocking out his senior early on, Valdez brutalized the former champion, resulting in three kills and 10 innings victory. Considering Valdez’s tendency to look for the brightest, Garcia believes he will do so again, albeit in a failed attempt.
“Come tomorrow night, I think Valdez will prove everyone wrong. He has a chance to win, even if he doesn’t, he will still prove everyone wrong. Most people don’t even give him a shot. I think he’s going to come out and show that he can compete with anyone at junior lightweight.”
