Teofimo Lopez raised questions about Shakur Stevenson’s refusal to fight his close associate, Keyshawn Davis, asserting that Stevenson’s stance would prevent him from unifying titles in the 140-pound division due to this refusal.
Shakur’s Defense of his “Brotherhood”
Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs) has frequently declared his intention to defeat WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo (22-1, 13 KOs) on January 31st, after which he plans to “cede” the championship to his “brother” Keyshawn, who holds the #1 ranking, enabling him to become a 140-pound titleholder.
Growing Opposition to Title Transfer Concept
Shakur’s proposition to hand over a championship belt to Keyshawn based on their personal bond has drawn considerable condemnation from the fanbase, being perceived as unsportsmanlike. Furthermore, if Stevenson genuinely considers Davis a “brother,” this suggests favoritism, which is contrary to the spirit of professional boxing.
A segment of fans suspects that Shakur leverages this “brotherly” connection as a tactic to circumvent engaging with another formidable opponent. Stevenson has demonstrated a lack of enthusiasm for confronting specific fighters.
- Andy Cruz
- Ernesto Mercado
- O’Shaquie Foster
- Keyshawn Davis
- Abdullah Mason
- Raymond Muratalla
- Gary Antuanne Russell
“You have the opportunity to be the best at 135, but you didn’t try to do that because you’ve got brothers,” Teofimo Lopez conveyed to Ring Magazine, regarding his past reluctance to unify the WBO lightweight title against Keyshawn Davis due to their “brotherly” relationship.
“Let’s understand what you’re saying. Keyshawn had one fight where he got the belt,” Shakur responded.
“You get what I’m saying, right?” Teofimo questioned, attempting to ensure Stevenson grasped his point.
“You’re saying I’m not fighting the best. I would fight anybody [except Keyshawn, Andy Cruz, Ernesto Mercado…etc],” Shakur stated.
“But not your brothers?” Teofimo challenged.
“No, I’m not fighting someone I came up with,” Stevenson passionately asserted regarding his justification for avoiding a match with Keyshawn Davis. “Someone I really been with on real trenches. I’m not,” Shakur continued, his voice rising in anger. “Ain’t no money in the world that is going to make me do that, bro. But I will fight you.”
Teofimo Declares Unification Unachievable
“Okay, let’s say that’ll be the case. Then you’re not going to see any unifications at 140 if he tries to take mine because he’s buddy with [Keyshawn],” Teofimo stated, referring to Shakur’s inability to unify the 140-lb division if he wins the WBO belt from him, given that his ‘brother’ Keyshawn is the top contender for that title.
“Ain’t you going to beat me?” Shakur retorted.
“I know what I’m going to do,” Lopez affirmed. “Basically, what I’m letting you know is boxing ain’t going to allow it.”
“How is boxing not going to allow it?” Shakur inquired.
“It won’t because now you’re facing me,” Teofimo replied.
“I’m so scared. Teo, I’m frightened,” Shakur mockingly said. “I’m scared for my life. I’m facing you. That s*** don’t move me. I can’t wait to see you. I’ve been waiting on this moment forever. It’s been years and years for this moment right here. You gave me the opportunity. I appreciate you for that, but s*** come with it. Facts.”
