Eddie Hearn Anticipates Unification Fight Between Gervonta Davis and Shakur Stevenson
Eddie Hearn, the influential boxing promoter, foresees a promising showdown between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Shakur Stevenson as negotiations with Vasiliy Lomachenko hit a standstill. Hearn, who has been vying to secure Stevenson’s services after the 27-year-old’s contract with Top Rank expired, believes that this potential clash could materialise given the current circumstances in the lightweight division.
Negotiations with Lomachenko Collapse
Initially, Gervonta Davis seemed poised to face off against Lomachenko, another elite contender in the 135lbs weight class. However, these discussions have faltered, leaving Davis in need of a new opponent. The withdrawal of Lomachenko from the negotiations has opened the door for a potential bout between Davis and Stevenson, which has quickly become one of the most anticipated matchups in boxing.
“I wouldn’t be surprised to see Tank [Davis] vs. Shakur [Stevenson] because situations and circumstances are everything,” Hearn commented during an interview with IFL TV. “Tank’s got all his eggs in the basket for a Vasiliy Lomachenko fight, and then that falls through. You’re left holding your dick at that point going, ‘Who am I gonna fight?’ Shakur’s a free agent, he’s ready to do a deal. Timing’s everything.”
Hearn’s Pursuit of Shakur Stevenson
Hearn has been actively courting Shakur Stevenson following the latter’s departure from Top Rank. The promoter’s goal is to align Stevenson with lucrative and meaningful fights that can enhance his career and appeal. The Matchroom promoter met with Stevenson’s team earlier in July, and their discussions centred around securing the best opportunities for the young talent.
“I met with Shakur, a great team, but really honest conversation,” Hearn said. “The conversation was, ‘I would love to sign you but I need to deliver the right fights for you, and if I can’t deliver those fights for you then maybe I’m not the guy to be with’. We all agree with the right fights; I’m the right man for the job, but I’ve got to deliver the right fights.”
Potential Impact of Davis vs. Stevenson Fight
The prospect of a Davis-Stevenson fight holds significant implications for the lightweight division. Both fighters are known for their explosive styles and impressive records, making this bout a high-stakes affair with substantial ramifications for the WBC lightweight title. With Davis currently holding the WBC belt, a unification bout with Stevenson could not only determine supremacy in the lightweight division but also elevate both fighters’ profiles on a global scale.
Hearn remains hopeful about finalising a deal with Stevenson, recognising the importance of delivering on such high-profile matches. “He will be here on Saturday, as will the rest of the world. If we can work with Shakur, I would love to work with Shakur, but it’s got to be right for him, it’s got to be right for us as well. On my part, I would love to be Shakur’s promoter because I think he’s a great fighter,” Hearn added.
The Future of Lightweight Boxing
As the situation unfolds, boxing fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the potential Davis-Stevenson fight. The lightweight division stands to benefit immensely from such a match, offering a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s brightest stars. With Hearn’s commitment to securing top-tier bouts and Stevenson’s readiness to engage in high-profile fights, the prospects for this matchup remain promising.
In conclusion, while the immediate focus is on resolving the negotiations and finalising the fight schedule, the anticipation surrounding a Davis-Stevenson unification bout reflects the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of boxing. As these developments continue, the lightweight division remains at the forefront of boxing enthusiasts’ minds, eagerly awaiting the next big showdown.