Shakur Stevenson has dropped a bombshell by announcing his retirement from boxing, surprising fans after his recent victory over Edwin De Los Santos for the WBC Lightweight Championship.
Despite securing the title, Stevenson faced criticism for his defensive style, partly attributed to a pre-fight hand injury that limited his performance.
Expressing a desire to improve, Stevenson, with one fight remaining on his Top Rank deal, intended to explore free agency for potential matchups with fighters like Devin Haney or Gervonta Davis aligned with DAZN or PBC, respectively.
The retirement decision remains unclear, but it coincided with the WBO's order for Emanuel Navarrete vs. Denys Berinchyk, eliminating Stevenson's chance to unify the division. Frustrated with the sport, Stevenson now shifts his focus to mentoring the next generation of fighters.
‼️ Shakur Stevenson claiming he’s now retiring from boxing after hearing that the WBO have ordered Emanuel Navarrete vs Denys Berinchyk for the vacant WBO lightweight world title. Shakur had previously called out Navarrete to challenge him for his WBC belt. pic.twitter.com/ybmi6YPNf6
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) January 30, 2024
Teofimo Lopez pulled a similar move when he won the WBO Junior Welterweight Title against Josh Taylor. Initially retiring and demanding a nine-figure payout, Lopez later revealed it was a publicity stunt.
It remains uncertain if Stevenson is strategically waiting for the best deal. Floyd Mayweather, too, had a history of retiring and returning. Stevenson's retirement announcement has surprised boxing fans, with some questioning its authenticity due to the potential he holds, while others remain skeptical about his retirement.
REACTIONS:
That is some major cap captain. There is no way that Shakur is in his prime at 26, calling it quits
— Pearse Fitzpatrick. (@CelticWolfsBane) January 30, 2024
This is really sad😭
— Samson (@Samrebell) January 30, 2024
Retirement, already? So much more left.
— missa❤️ (@SugarMissa1) January 30, 2024