WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson didn’t reach the top of the lightweight division alone. It took years of hard work, dedication, and a committed team to sharpen his skills and mold him into the undefeated world champion he is today. However, Stevenson’s hard-earned success may now be at risk.

Recent reports reveal that his upcoming opponent, Floyd Schofield Jr., has pulled out of the fight, alleging that Stevenson’s team poisoned him. As that controversy unfolds, eyes will be on February 22 to see how the fiasco culminates. Meanwhile, in the lead-up to fight night, many are wondering: who are the masterminds behind Stevenson’s boxing success? Here’s everything you need to know about Stevenson’s coach.

Meet Coach Rell and Wali Moses, Shakur Stevenson’s trainers

Shakur Stevenson’s journey to boxing greatness has been shaped by two key figures, Coach Rell and his maternal grandfather, Wali Moses. While little is known about Coach Rell beyond his full name, Rashiem Jefferson, he has worked with Stevenson in the past. Meanwhile, Moses has been Stevenson’s guiding force since childhood.

Moses introduced Stevenson to boxing at age five, recognizing his talent early on. “Every time I took him to a tournament, even before he was old enough to fight, he would always say, ‘Pop-Pop, I’m never going to lose,’” Moses recalled. His coaching philosophy emphasizes technical skill, defense, and mental toughness—key traits in Stevenson’s style.

Moses, a respected boxing coach from Newark, played a pivotal role in Stevenson’s 2016 Olympic silver medal run. “The climb has been hard, but he wants it,” he said. His influence, both as a trainer and grandfather, remains central to Stevenson’s success.

Who is Shakur Stevenson’s manager and promoter?

Shakur Stevenson recently ended his ties with Top Rank to become a free agent. For his now-uncertain fight against Floyd Schofield Jr., he was collaborating with Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn. As for Stevenson’s manager, he is co-managed by James Prince and Josh Dublin. 

Dublin, by the way, has threatened legal action against rising star Schofield because of the poisoning accusations. Regardless, an interesting titbit is that when Stevenson turned professional in 2017, he was promoted by former world champion Andre Ward who Stevenson also looks up to.

Where does Stevenson train?

Throughout his career, Stevenson has trained in multiple gyms, constantly refining his skills. As an amateur, he trained at the Alexandria Boxing Club, laying the foundation for his success. Some sources also suggest he spent time at the J Prince Boxing Gym. Additionally, Stevenson has trained in other locations while working with elite fighters like Terence Crawford and Coach Bullet, further expanding his experience and technique.

That said, while Shakur Stevenson’s next fight might be in jeopardy, his training with world-class coaches will ensure he emerges victorious no matter what. What do you think about Stevenson’s coaches?