The pound-for-pound contender is seeking a more lucrative deal after rejecting Top Rank’s latest proposal.
By Chris Mannix | The Sporting News
NEWARK, N.J. — Shakur Stevenson is a free agent, and the lightweight contender is expected to draw plenty of interest on the open market after spurning a $15 million offer from Top Rank.
Stevenson, who won a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics, has been with Top Rank since turning pro in 2017. He has won 19 of his 20 professional fights, with nine knockouts, and is considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
Top Rank CEO Bob Arum confirmed to The Sporting News that Stevenson rejected the company’s latest offer, which would have paid him $15 million over three fights.
Arum said he was disappointed by Stevenson’s decision, but he wished him well in his future endeavors.
“Shakur is a great fighter, and we wish him all the best,” Arum said. “We made him a very fair offer, but he decided to explore his options. We respect his decision, and we wish him well.”
Stevenson’s decision to become a free agent is a bold one, but it’s also a reflection of the current boxing market. Fighters are increasingly willing to test the open market in search of the best possible deal, and Stevenson is no different.
With his talent and marketability, Stevenson is likely to command a significant payday on the open market. He is one of the most exciting fighters in the sport, and he has the potential to be a major star.
- Stevenson is expected to meet with several promoters in the coming weeks to discuss his future.
- He is reportedly interested in fighting on DAZN, which has a deep stable of fighters and a proven track record of success in promoting fights.
- Stevenson could also sign with PBC, which is the home of some of the biggest names in boxing, including Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford.
Ultimately, the decision of where to sign will be up to Stevenson. He is a young fighter with a bright future, and he has the potential to be one of the best in the world. Wherever he lands, he is sure to make an impact.
Kind regards
Chris Christensen
