The previous world champion believes Shakur Stevenson’s defensive approach discourages the marquee matchups he wants despite his elite technical ability
Sergio Mora believes Shakur Stevenson has the abilities to turn into one in all boxing’s biggest attractions but says his defensive style is costing him the marquee fights he wants. Mora argues that technical brilliance alone is not any longer enough when the game rewards fighters who accept offensive risks.
Discussing Shakur’s pursuit of a showdown with Devin Haney, Mora argued that elite-level skills alone will not be enough. He believes the unbeaten former three-division world champion has turn into so focused on avoiding punishment that he has made himself less appealing for the blockbuster matchups he wants.
“Shakur Stevenson isn’t going to get the fights that we’re discussing because he doesn’t put himself on the road to really entertain,” Mora said on Chris Mannix’ channel. “I used to be a pure boxer, but I didn’t have the flexibility of Shakur. If I had Shakur’s response time, his speed, his southpaw prowess, that amateur background, I might take more probabilities, man, because I can take more probabilities.
“He doesn’t try this. He doesn’t put himself ready to must get touched. Not one glove, not one punch touches this man. And that’s the explanation he won’t get these big fights.”
While Mora focused on Shakur’s defensive style, negotiations have also turn into a part of the discussion surrounding his pursuit of marquee opponents. Shakur has sought a 144-pound catchweight for a fight with Devin Haney and publicly urged Haney to vacate the WBO welterweight title before the bout. He has also targeted Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn, each established welterweights, despite not yet campaigning within the division himself.
Mora acknowledged Shakur’s technical brilliance, comparing him to chess legend Bobby Fischer, but believes fans and promoters ultimately gravitate toward fighters willing to take greater risks contained in the ring.
“This man’s done it in three divisions. He’s the products. You mentioned chess. He’s a grandmaster in boxing. This guy’s like Bobby Fischer with boxing gloves,” Mora said. “But Shakur is within the business of Shakur. So, I respect it. Make your money. Keep that undefeated zero, but don’t expect to get the massive fights in case you’re not going to place yourself within the line of fireplace. That’s just how this business is.”
Click here to subscribe to our FREE newsletter
Related Boxing News:
Last Updated on 2026/07/15 at 5:07 AM