Jones reacts to Stevenson’s stage, not his opponent depth
Stevenson’s win over Teofimo Lopez is real proof. Lopez was experienced, physically strong, and still dangerous. Stevenson controlled him and removed his offense over twelve rounds. That performance confirmed that Stevenson belongs on the elite level above 130. But that fight also stands largely alone in that category.
Edwin De Los Santos brought power but had never beaten an elite technician. William Zepeda was undefeated and aggressive, but was also entering his first real championship test. Each fights strengthened Stevenson’s position. Neither carried the identical established threat level because the elite prime opponents Mayweather faced early in his profession.
Jones appears to be reacting to Stevenson’s access to major stages somewhat than the total depth of elite opponents he has actually defeated.
Mayweather had already faced elite prime threats by yr nine
Mayweather’s early profession was built on removing elite threats, not positioning. Genaro Hernández had never been beaten at 130 when Mayweather stopped him to win his first world title. Diego Corrales entered undefeated at 33-0 and was viewed as one in every of boxing’s most dangerous punchers. Mayweather dropped him five times and compelled a stoppage that removed him from contention overnight.
Jose Luis Castillo provided a distinct type of test. He was strong, aggressive, and in his absolute prime. Mayweather fought through injury to win the primary fight and returned to settle the result clearly within the rematch.
By the point Mayweather faced Arturo Gatti in 2005, he had already built a record of solving elite prime opponents across multiple styles. The Gatti fight elevated his financial position, however the competitive proof was already established.
Platform access accelerated Stevenson’s rise
Stevenson’s rise has happened faster in public view. ESPN moved him quickly. Riyadh Season placed him on the game’s biggest stages. He received championship opportunities soon after entering recent divisions. His ability justified those opportunities, but the popularity is arriving faster than the opponent’s depth.
Visibility arrived before the total opponent depth did. Mayweather didn’t reach that type of stage until after he had already beaten undefeated punchers and reigning champions. He took those risks and removed those threats first. The stage got here after the proof. Stevenson reached the stage while still constructing it.
Proof against elite opposition still builds over time
Stevenson has shown he belongs. His win over Teofimo Lopez answered real questions. His control and composure separate him from most fighters in his divisions.
Jones’ comparison skips the order Mayweather followed. Mayweather built his popularity by removing elite threats first. Recognition followed. Stevenson has the flexibility to construct that type of record, and he has began the method. The complete list of elite prime opponents that defined Mayweather’s early profession remains to be ahead of him.