In a move that has sparked intense debate and left the boxing world buzzing, Shakur Stevenson has been stripped of his WBC lightweight title, raising questions about the organization's motives and the fighter's future. But here's where it gets controversial: Was this decision fair, or is there more to the story than meets the eye?
The World Boxing Council (WBC), headquartered in Mexico City, announced on Wednesday via its website and social media platforms that Stevenson would no longer hold the lightweight title. The organization cited its rule prohibiting champions from simultaneously holding world titles from other governing bodies in different weight classes. Stevenson, already a champion in multiple divisions, recently added to his accolades by winning The Ring and WBO junior welterweight titles from Teofimo Lopez in a stunning performance at Madison Square Garden. This victory made him a four-weight world champion, a feat that few boxers achieve.
But this is the part most people miss: Stevenson had expressed willingness to defend his titles in either the 140-pound or 135-pound divisions, depending on the right opportunity. Yet, the WBC moved swiftly to strip him of the title without granting him additional time to decide. Why the rush? Stevenson later revealed on social media that the WBC demanded a $100,000 fee related to his fight with Lopez—a fight that didn’t even involve a WBC belt. Stevenson’s response was both bold and emotional: “100k to some crooks who don’t deserve it? Nah, Leilani [his daughter], I’d rather give it to you, baby girl. The WBC didn’t even have anything to do with this fight, and it’s eating them alive. Take your belt; it doesn’t make me.”
This situation echoes the WBC’s well-publicized dispute with Terence Crawford, Stevenson’s close friend and mentor. Crawford had previously criticized WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman for demanding a $300,000 sanctioning fee for his fight against Canelo Alvarez, a sum far exceeding what other organizations charged. Stevenson’s refusal to pay the fee seems to align with Crawford’s stance, suggesting a deeper rift between the WBC and these high-profile fighters. “And I just paid these dudes after my last fight,” Stevenson added. “What the hell am I giving y’all 100k for now? Because y’all got beef with Bud [Crawford], so come at me for it.”
Despite the controversy, Stevenson’s performance against Lopez was nothing short of dominant. Facing the most accomplished opponent of his eight-year pro career, the 2016 Olympic silver medalist showcased his skill, using his jab to dictate the pace and distance. Judges unanimously scored the fight 119-109 in his favor, solidifying his status as a force in the junior welterweight division.
Stevenson, 28, had won the WBC lightweight title in November 2023, overcoming hand and shoulder injuries to defeat Edwin De Los Santos by unanimous decision. Critics had labeled his approach cautious, but he silenced skeptics in his most recent defense against William Zepeda, standing toe-to-toe with the aggressive Mexican southpaw and winning convincingly (119-109, 118-110, 118-110).
With Stevenson’s title now vacant, Cuba’s Jadier Herrera, the WBC’s interim lightweight champion, was not immediately elevated to the full titleholder position. Zepeda remains the WBC’s No. 1 contender, despite his loss to Stevenson six months ago. This leaves the lightweight division in an intriguing state of flux.
Here’s the burning question: Is the WBC’s decision a fair enforcement of its rules, or is it a punitive move fueled by personal disputes? Stevenson’s refusal to pay the fee and his public criticism of the organization have undoubtedly added fuel to the fire. What do you think? Is the WBC justified in its actions, or has it overstepped its bounds? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below.
