Many fans on social media consider that Shakur Stevenson is making a mistake moving as much as 140 to face Teofimo Lopez in early 2026.
Shakur’s lack of size, power, and physical strength is why the doubters are picking Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs) to win this bout on January 31, 2026. WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo has repeatedly shown he can fight within the pocket and trade with heavy-handed opponents.
We haven’t seen Stevenson hold his ground against true punchers since he turned skilled in 2017. Across the three divisions he’s competed in, he has only faced one real power threat: Edwin De Los Santos. Of their November 2023 fight, Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs) boxed on the move for a lot of the 12 rounds.
Shakur’s post earlier today on social media — saying he won’t be participating in Thanksgiving because Teofimo predicted he would make him quit — suggests he takes this matchup extremely seriously. When fighters adjust their routines around a training camp, it normally means the stakes feel high.
“No thanksgiving this 12 months for me. Dude said he gone make me quit on the stool or knock me out… WE WORKING TODAY. F** THAT,”* said Shakur on X.
Shakur’s last fight was against volume puncher William Zepeda, and he absorbed more shots than we typically see from him. He stood his ground way over usual, and the pace of that fight left visible marks on him by the ultimate bell. That was against a fighter not known for single-punch power. Teofimo presents a far different challenge, and the stylistic matchup will likely be demanding.
Hopefully, Shakur and his team have fully evaluated what comes with this jump to 140 and the threat Lopez brings on January thirty first. A loss here would complicate Stevenson’s plans for 2026, including potential fights against Conor Benn and Lamont Roach. Those matchups might be brushed aside depending on what happens with Teo.
Last Updated on 11/28/2025