
via Getty
BROOKLYN, NY – JULY 29: Gervonta Davis answers questions during a media availability on July 29, 2017 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

via Getty
BROOKLYN, NY – JULY 29: Gervonta Davis answers questions during a media availability on July 29, 2017 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
WBA regular lightweight champion Gervonta Davis and Olympic medalist Shakur Stevenson, have been at the center of speculation regarding a potential matchup. The possibility of these two fighters going head-to-head has generated excitement among fans and experts alike. However, obstacles and skepticism have emerged, casting doubt on whether the fight will come to fruition.
Both fighters are currently undefeated with Davis recently beating Ryan Garcia in convincing fashion. Stevenson, on the other hand, displayed his talents following his recent lightweight debut victory over Shuichiro Yoshino. However, the skepticism surrounding the potential matchup stems from the opinions expressed by boxing promoter Bob Arum, who voiced concerns about the profitability of a Davis vs. Stevenson bout.
Moreover, Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe also echoed Arum’s sentiments, expressing doubts about the fight’s drawing power. Despite this, Davis’ trainer feels that this fight needs to happen, even suggesting drastic measures if it doesn’t come to fruition.
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Gervonta Davis’ trainer calls for a bout with Shakur Stevenson despite skepticism
While Arum and Ellerbe expressed reservations, Kenny Ellis, assistant trainer to Gervonta Davis, took a more proactive stance. In a self-recorded video, Ellis flipped a coin to determine his preferred opponent for Davis. The coin landed on tails, indicating a bout with Stevenson. Ellis then urged the 25-year-old to assert himself as the boss and push for the fight, even suggesting that he sever ties with Arum if necessary.
“Heads Devin, Tails Shakur. It’s tails. Shakur, call your team and tell them you want Tank. Whoever is not willing to make it happen, get rid of they a*s. You the boss. The fighter is the boss. If Bob Arum don’t want it, tell him let you out the f*****g contract.” said Ellis
Stevenson is currently under contract with Arum’s Top Rank which, could pose a challenge in making the matchup a reality. However, Ellis believes that Stevenson’s contractual situation should not be a significant hindrance. Despite this, ‘Fearless’ might be interested in facing another opponent next before he fights ‘Tank’.
Shakur Stevenson wants to face Devin Haney next
In the post-fight interview following the undisputed lightweight champion’s controversial title defense, Stevenson was quick to call him out. He revealed his interest in facing Haney if he stays at 135 pounds and believed that he was the far superior boxer.
Read More: After Controversial Win, Floyd Mayweather’s Uncle Predicts Devin Haney’s Fate Against Gervonta Davis
“Let’s make it happen, I think that’s the fight that should happen next, Devin is not on my level and I’m going to show it. He’s a tough fighter but it’s a high skill level within me and I feel like he’s not on my level,” he said.
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If the fight materializes, it has the potential to be a captivating battle that could change the future of the division. However, given the current state of the lightweight division, being one of the most ones in boxing, there could be other options for both fighters to explore.
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What did you think about Davis’ trainer suggesting Stevenson fire Arum? Let us know in the comments.
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