Shakur Stevenson is reportedly finalising a promotional deal that could have significant repercussions on the future of his career.
The 28-year-old is already considered one of boxing’s premier stars, certainly a top five pound-for-pound operator, but whether he maintains this lofty status is another matter entirely.
Based purely on his talent, many have tipped the American to go down as a first-ballot Hall of Famer and, quite possibly, one of the 21st century’s most gifted fighters.
In order to realise his full potential, though, Stevenson must prove himself against a selection of elite competitors in and around his current weight class of 140lbs.
He has already done so to a certain extent, dethroning Teofimo Lopez to claim the WBO world super-lightweight title by unanimous decision earlier this year.
But now, it remains unclear as to whether he will secure further world titles, or just simply be involved in fights that make the most financial sense.
This is because boxing journalist Chris Mannix has reported that Stevenson is close to inking a promotional deal with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing.
“140[lb] titleholder Shakur Stevenson is finalising a deal with Zuffa Boxing. Stevenson [is] set to join Conor Benn as [one of] the most high-profile names in the Zuffa stable.”
Reporting here: 140-pound titleholder Shakur Stevenson is finalizing a deal with Zuffa Boxing. Stevenson set to join Conor Benn as the most high profile names in the Zuffa stable. https://t.co/qlzdfRo0di
— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) May 9, 2026
It is unclear whether or not Zuffa’s original plan to recogne only eight weight classes remains. If it does, Stevenson would likely campaign at 135 or 147lbs if he is to sign with the promotional outfit.
Additionally, UFC boss White has made it clear that, while he is happy to accommodate fighters in certain cases, he would rather they fight for the ‘Zuffa title’ than any sanctioning body belts.
Stevenson has, of course, already become a four-division world champion, but it remains to be seen whether he will enhance his legacy by collecting further titles of such historic significance. With Zuffa’s close ties to the Ring Magazine, Stevenson could well still feature heavily on those cards for the traditional belts.
If the deal comes good, Zuffa have landed one of the best fighters in the sport and a man many want to fight, strengthening their bargaining position.
