By: Hans Themistode
There was a time when Shakur Stevenson believed this day would never come.
After fighting for a mandatory spot in the WBO sanctioning body at 126 pounds, Stevenson was ecstatic over his possible confrontation against then-belt holder, Oscar Valdez. However, in a move that Stevenson considers a “dump,” Valdez chose not to face him and would increase the weight.
It was a wise move on Valdez’s part, as he would mercilessly take down Miguel Berchelt, the end result being the Mexican star crowned WBC champion. Shortly after planting his flag at 130 pounds, Stevenson quickly joined him.
The Olympic silver medalist will have three straight wins as the all-around featherweight superweight before cutting off reigning world champion Jamel Herring. Immediately after wrapping his waist in gold, Stevenson turned his attention to Valdez.
Now, after poking fun at and antagonizing their men, Stevenson and Valdez will settle this weekend, April 30, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. Although Stevenson is only 24 years old, the crafty singer believes he is a historian of the sport. With Stevenson more likely to discuss the careers of great veterans, he’s more interested in focusing his conversation on the discerning consumer.
While Stevenson enjoys performing for his raving fans, he is well aware of the vitriol that will be sprayed in his direction if he arrives early.
Stevenson told Crystina Poncher: “My thinking is, whatever it takes to win. “They’ll love you when you win, they’ll hate you if you lose.”
Currently rated as a pretty big favorite to keep his unbeaten record intact, Stevenson doesn’t look down on Valdez. Although the former Olympic silver medalist chastised Valdez while pushing the story that the current WBC champion didn’t want to be in their upcoming bout, he, wholeheartedly, respected Valdez’s skill.
In fact, Stevenson believes Valdez is simply a rudimentary contract. If anyone other than himself stepped into the ring to face the two teams’ prestigious players, Stevenson would give Valdez the advantage. However, with Stevenson believing his skill set is among the best in all of boxing, he will be looking to put on a show Saturday night.
“I felt like if he was fighting someone else, another boxer who wasn’t on my level, he would beat them. But, I think he supports me because I am a special talent. ”
