The friendship between Shakur Stevenson and Terence Crawford remains one of the most inspiring bonds in modern boxing. The former undisputed champion has mentored the young Olympian, guiding him through the highs and lows of the sport. But sometimes, even the strongest bonds face unexpected moments. One such instance saw an awkward situation emerge when Crawford offered a well-intended suggestion. However, much credit goes to Shakur Stevenson for handling the situation with care.

Crawford is preparing for the historic showdown with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez. Naturally, speculation is growing about the undercard that will accompany such a monumental event. Meanwhile, Stevenson has his eyes set on a mega fight with Gervonta Davis. So during an interview, Crawford casually suggested that if Stevenson’s fight with Davis comes to fruition, including it as the co-feature for the September showdown would be a great move. From a promotional standpoint, the idea might make sense. But Stevenson understands a fight ‘Tank’ deserves to stand on its own. Now that’s a big challenge. How to decline his mentor’s suggestion without seeming dismissive or disrespectful.

At first glance: Terence Crawford’s proposal

Terence Crawford knows exactly what his fight with ‘Canelo’ Alvarez means to the boxing world. A battle between two pound-for-pound greats, both supremely gifted in every facet of the sport, it is a once-in-a-generation spectacle. As the headline event, it commands global attention. But even a card of that magnitude could benefit from strong supporting fights. During The Ring interview, Crawford entertained the possibility of adding Stevenson vs. Davis to the event.

The mere idea of a card featuring Terence Crawford, ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, Shakur Stevenson, and Gervonta Davis could elevate it into one of the greatest in boxing history.

“I don’t know [about the undercard]. It’s going to be crazy. It should be crazy,” Crawford told The Ring. If the Stevenson-Davis fight happens to align with the September event, it would be ‘dope,’ he added. However, he also acknowledged the challenges. “If Tank was not so cocky to be on a Terence Crawford undercard, that would be dope. But I don’t see Tank taking a backseat to any fighter because he will think it’s the Tank show. So I don’t know. But it should be a good undercard,” he said.

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For Stevenson, though, headlining major events and earning the right to fight a star like Gervonta Davis makes the idea of fighting on an undercard a step backward. It’s not just about positioning on a fight card; it’s about legacy.

Shakur Stevenson balancing a fine line

It’s one of those tough situations when you need to say no to someone close. If he truly believed in the legacy of his fight with ‘Tank’ Davis, Stevenson had to muster some courage and take a stand. Responding to The Ring’s post featuring Crawford’s suggestion, he wrote, “Love you, big brudda, but nah, I think me and cuz fight the biggest fight in the sport. The PPV numbers gone be out of this world. Watch what I say!!”

Naturally, the response sparked debate. One user quipped, “That’s only because Tank’s name will be on there, not yours.” Stevenson, unfazed, clapped back: “U dumb if u believe that.”

However, perhaps recognizing that his words might be misinterpreted, Stevenson quickly clarified his stance: “And that’s not a shot a my big brudda; that’s just me believing in myself.. He da Goat in my eyes, and after he beat Canelo it won’t be no debate!!”

Clearly, Stevenson’s response showcased both confidence and maturity. He had to balance self-belief while ensuring Crawford knew there was no disrespect intended. And he has a point. A fight against Gervonta Davis is one that millions around the world will tune in for. Relegating it to a co-main event could diminish its legacy. The move will strip it of the independent historic significance it deserves.

Do you think Shakur Stevenson made the right call? Should his fight with ‘Tank’ Davis stand alone as a marquee event, or would it benefit from the massive platform of Crawford vs. Canelo?