By: Sean Crose
Numerous shops are reporting that undefeated dynamo Shakur Stevenson is ready to battle one other undefeated contender, Frank Martin, for the WBC light-weight title in a contest to be held later this yr (ESPN is reporting November or December). Although not as properly often called the 20-0 Stevenson, the 18-0 Martin isn’t seen as a stroll by way of the park for the Newark, New Jersey native by any stretch of the creativeness. The battle was on the verge of going to a handbag bid, however a deal was reached in time. Suffice it to say, it seems as if the occasion will likely be aired reside on ESPN, which is able to make it a pleasant cherry to place on the high of an excellent yr for the game.
With Devin Haney now apparently on his method to getting into the junior welterweight realm, the winner of Stevenson-Martin might be thought of the shining star of one in every of boxing’s high divisions. Stevenson is already thought of by some to be among the best, if not the only finest, fighters on this planet pound for pound. At simply 26 years of age, the previous Olympic medalist has already gained world titles in a number of weight divisions. Stevenson’s final battle was a six spherical destruction of Shuichiro Yoshino in his hometown of Newark final spring.
As for Martin, that is clearly the prospect of a lifetime. Not that the 28 yr outdated Detroit native hasn’t earned it. The man is relentless within the ring, can throw in combos, can launch a punishing physique assault – and may take punishment himself, as was seen in his gutsy victory over Artem Harutyunyan again in July. Only six of Martin’s opponent’s have made it to the ultimate bell. In quick, he’s a worthy opponent for Stevenson, because the pairing – on paper, not less than – has the makings of a top quality, even perhaps thrilling, light-weight matchup.
Haney, who seems to be leaving the division behind, has been named the WBC’s champion in recess since he gained’t be defending his title. The different massive identify on this saga is former light-weight kingpin, and pound for pound ranked fighter, Vasyl Lomachenko, who reportedly opted out of dealing with Stevenson, leaving the door open for Martin within the course of. ESPN is indicating the Stevenson-Martin battle is perhaps held in both Las Vegas or New York City, relying on the precise date it’s set to go down.
