Desperate Shakur? Stevenson Sets Sights On Kambosos

November 23, 2024

in Boxing

Reading Time: 2 mins read

Shakur Stevenson is eyeing George Kambosos Jr as his next opponent for February after learning that #1 WBC contender William Zepeda is unavailable due to a right-hand injury suffered last Saturday.

With Zepeda out, Stevenson is eager to secure a big name to fight. He had been pursuing the Zepeda match but now needs a new opponent for February 22nd.

Zepeda’s Loss, Kambosos’ Gain?

Stevenson (22-0, 10 KOs) is interested in facing former unified lightweight champion Kambosos (21-3, 10 KOs) and is looking to initiate negotiations. Kambosos Jr. recently inked a co-promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, with Lou Dibella also promoting him.

“Come see me in February in Australia. Drop your belt. Let Zepeda become an email chump, and see me at 140. You know exactly who to contact; I’m right here,” George Kambosos Jr. stated.

Kambosos has a 1-3 record in his last four fights, making him less than an ideal choice for Stevenson if he wants to attract U.S. fans. Potential opponents like Andy Cruz, Floyd Schofield, or Raymond Muratalla would offer better match-ups for Stevenson.

Kambosos could provide PPV revenue from Australia, offering a safer option for Stevenson. However, facing someone like Cruz, Schofield, or Muratalla would present more risk but could also enhance Stevenson’s reputation among American fans.

Hearn would need to approve a fight between Stevenson and Kambosos, as he had previously mentioned a potential bout between Kambosos and IBF light welterweight champion Liam Paro. Such a match-up could draw significant PPV buys in Australia and possibly fill a stadium.

Kambosos has indicated that Stevenson would need to move up to 140 pounds and vacate his WBC lightweight title for a fight to happen. Stevenson’s priority, however, is likely to pursue a unification bout with WBA champion Gervonta Davis.