As Shakur Stevenson prepares for one of the most significant fights of his career, questions linger about his appeal to casual boxing fans. At 28 years old and boasting an impressive record of 23-0, Stevenson is set to face William Zepeda, the WBC interim lightweight champion, at Louis Armstrong Stadium on Saturday. Despite his undefeated status, Stevenson acknowledges a disconnect with boxing’s casual followers, stating, “What it really boils down to is the fact that casuals rule the sport of boxing.”
Stevenson’s Rise and the Fight Ahead
Stevenson, who has held titles in three different weight classes, will share the card with Zepeda, who is also undefeated at 33-0 with 27 KOs. While their matchup is compelling, it is positioned as the co-main event, overshadowed by a bout featuring Edgar Berlanga and Hamzah Sheeraz. This prioritization raises eyebrows, as Berlanga’s claim to fame stems primarily from his unanimous decision loss to Canelo Alvarez, which many viewed as lackluster.
Stevenson’s style has been a point of contention. His last fight against Edwin De Los Santos for the vacant WBC title was criticized for its lack of excitement, despite Stevenson dominating the match. Reflecting on that performance, Stevenson remarked, “When I go back and watch that fight, I see greatness.” His struggle with injuries, including a tear in his left middle knuckle and shoulder, adds context to his tactical approach that night.
Challenges in Gaining Fan Support
Despite his technical abilities and undefeated record, Stevenson faces skepticism regarding his entertainment value. Critics have labeled him as “not entertaining enough,” with some claiming he “ran” during fights. This perception has been fueled by his cautious approach, focusing on defense rather than aggressive offense. Zepeda, on the other hand, aims to challenge this narrative by asserting his own fighting style, stating, “I’m the one who has to make the difference.” He recognizes the importance of applying pressure and engaging Stevenson in a way that previous opponents have failed to do.
Zepeda’s confidence stems from his own experiences in the ring, particularly his past victories against tough opponents. He emphasizes, “I have to close the gap. Me. I’m the one, William Zepeda.” His determination to confront Stevenson directly reflects a broader sentiment among fans who desire more action and less cautious boxing.
As the fight approaches, the dynamics between Stevenson and Zepeda illustrate the clash between different boxing philosophies. Zepeda’s commitment to an aggressive style contrasts with Stevenson’s strategic and measured approach. The upcoming match not only serves as a test for both fighters but also as a potential turning point for Stevenson’s relationship with casual fans.
In an era where knockout power and engaging personalities often capture media attention and fan loyalty, Stevenson remains hopeful. He aspires to convert skepticism into admiration, believing that his skills can ultimately win over even the most casual of boxing aficionados.
