Shakur Stevenson commented on speculation he was considering an allegedly official approach from upstart fight firm Zuffa Boxing, joining Dana White’s self-described league in a reported three-fight deal worth $60 million.
If the rumor had merit, and Stevenson did indeed sign, it would arguably represent the greatest signing Zuffa could possibly make considering where the American fighter is in his boxing career.
Sure, Oleksandr Usyk joining Zuffa could possibly create more headlines but the Ukraine king is at the tail-end of his career, even going as far to outline a three-fight battle-plan before he retires from the sport forever.
Now compare that to Stevenson, who is still only just entering his prime at 28 years old, possibly capable of dominating beyond three-weight champion status over the next decade, bolstered, no doubt, by back-to-back wins over William Zepeda and Teofimo Lopez.
Shannon Sharpe asked Shakur if there’s any truth to the Zuffa speculation.
“Not that I know of but if they’re offering $60 million, call my phone — I’m ready.”
A Zuffa deal could make sense as matchmakers at the Las Vegas-based promotion could box Stevenson against Conor Benn, if the British slugger defeats Regis Prograis on April 11 in the co-feature for Tyson Fury’s return to the ring against Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
Other fighters linked with Stevenson include Gary Antuanne Russell, Raymond Muratella, and Ryan Garcia.
As for Zuffa Boxing, though they only hosted their first official event January 23, they have organized four shows so far, which has seen Robert Meriwether III continue to develop, Jose Valenzuela pick up the Zuffa title after beating Diego Torres, and, most recently, a Zuffa belt-winning performance from Jai Opetaia over Brandon Glanton.
Zuffa was rumored to be lead promoter for the Fury vs Makhmudov event but, instead, it will be Spencer Brown. Zuffa Boxing 05, meanwhile, takes place April 5 — again at the Meta APEX; a facility UFC owns and operates.
Andres cortes fights Eridson Garcia in the main event of Zuffa Boxing 05, after Mark Magsayo and Feargal McCrory fight in the co-main.
MUST READ:
Tim Tszyu Set for April 5 Return Against Undefeated Denis Nurja in Australia
Deontay Wilder Says ‘I Can’t Sit Around’ After Being Left Off Usyk’s Three-Fight Retirement Plan
Devin Haney Targets September 5 for Ryan Garcia Rematch at Allegiant Stadium
