Conor Benn mentioned engaging in conversation with Shakur Stevenson about a potential showdown in April, held within a UK stadium. He reports that Shakur conveyed his intention to first triumph over Teofimo Lopez in early 2026, paving the way for their fight in April.
Is a Return to 147 Feasible for Benn?
For this potential bout to materialize, Benn (24-1, 14 KOs) would have to drop back to the 147-pound division, given Shakur’s (24-0, 11 KOs) size constraints, making a move to 160 or 154 unfeasible. Questions arise regarding Benn’s ability to make 147, considering his three-year absence from the weight class since 2022.
A fight between Benn and the lightweight Stevenson would present a size discrepancy, particularly after Benn’s victory over Chris Eubank Jr. at middleweight via a 12-round unanimous decision just last Saturday, November 15th, in London.
Benn has been vocal, expressing interest in various opponents since his triumph over a seemingly weight-drained 36-year-old Eubank Jr. at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. Initially, following his victory, Conor named the following fighters:
- Mario Barrios
- Devin Haney
- Ryan Garcia
- Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero
Nigel Benn Favors 147 Over Exhibition Matches
Presently, Benn appears to have shifted his focus away from vying for a welterweight title, now prioritizing a lucrative fight against Ryan Garcia. His father, Nigel Benn, advocates for him to pursue a world title at 147 and avoid engaging in trivial fights against smaller opponents who might employ excessive movement.
Without specifying names, Nigel referenced the May 2nd Times Square event in New York earlier this year, where Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez both utilized considerable movement during their respective fights.
“I engaged in conversation with Shakur, as I take my words seriously,” Conor Benn stated on the AH Show, expressing his eagerness to fight Shakur Stevenson. “I spoke to Shakur yesterday. I asked, ‘Are you serious? If so, we can make the fight happen in April, and we can host it in a stadium here.’”
Benn risks ridicule from fans if he opts to fight Shakur at welterweight. Already, some perceive Conor as inauthentic, benefiting from his father’s legacy, former two-division world champion Nigel, rather than facing formidable opponents. Eubank Jr. wasn’t a genuine middleweight and wasn’t even regarded as a top 168-pounder.
Shakur’s Pledge: “Defeat Teo First”
“He mentioned, ‘I’ll deal with Teo [Lopez]. I’m going to secure a win, and we can absolutely make the fight happen in April in England,’” Benn recounted regarding his conversation with Shakur.
Shakur should refrain from presumptions about his yet-to-be-announced January 31, 2026, bout against WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez. He faces the possibility of defeat. His performance against William Zepeda on July 12th wasn’t particularly impressive, and he doesn’t possess the same level of power as Lopez.
“The reality is, I’ll facilitate the fight. I’ll inform Eddie [Hearn], ‘This is our plan. Let’s make it happen.’ Similar to the Eubank situation, I increased my weight to 160, but I was at 147 when I agreed to the fight. So, I’m prepared to fight anyone,” Benn asserted.
