The boxing world wrestles with another set of rumours, this time involving Gervonta Davis and Shakur Stevenson. However, Eddie Hearn, matchroom boxing’s head honcho, has been prompt in dispelling these speculations. Hearn has also addressed the backlash following rumors of a match between Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga.
“There’s no truth in the rumors that Shakur Stevenson will face Gervonta Davis,” Hearn stated. Despite the intrigue and frenzy this potential lightweight clash has stirred in the sporting community, Hearn laid it all to rest. Stevenson, 24, has been in sublime form, with a professional record of 17 wins and no losses yet. Meanwhile, Davis, also yet to be defeated, won his last fight against Mario Barrios, handily.
Gervonta Davis, promoted under the Mayweather promotions’ umbrella, would indeed make a riveting matchup with Shakur Stevenson. However, according to Hearn, this remains a flight of fancy. “The fighters have their path. Currently, a fight between Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta Davis is not on the agenda,” added Hearn.
Moving beyond debunking rumors, Hearn was quick to respond to the critique regarding the rumored fight between boxing’s superstar Canelo Alvarez and Edgar Berlanga. The criticism centered on the belief that Berlanga, with his limited top circuit experience, wouldn’t provide a tough enough test for the multi-division champion, Canelo.
“I acknowledge that there are fans who think Berlanga isn’t ready for Canelo, but this is boxing – Anything can happen,” Hearn asserted. Further, he added how important it is for the sport to entertain fights that get people talking. Alvarez, a generational talent, has remained open to facing tough and aspiring competitors, forcing the boxing world to speculate on his next ventures.
Edgar Berlanga presents an interesting prospect. His professional record might not shout out ‘experienced’, but 16 out of his 17 wins have been via knockout. Interestingly, Berlanga’s first-round knockout streak was a talking point until he went the full 8 rounds against Damon Nicholson in April 2021. How this power puncher would fare against Canelo’s seasoned defense remains a tantalizing hypothetical.
Hearn’s comments about Berlanga’s critics are also indicative of his bigger-picture approach to promoting boxing. He believes in shaking up the status quo and giving rising stars a chance against established champions. “Critics are always there. I believe Berlanga has the potential to test Canelo, and it’s such opportunities that create new champions and keep the sport vibrant.”
Alvarez is looking for his next opponent following his recent win against Billy Joe Saunders. Berlanga’s name has been thrown into the mix, and despite the critique, the match could end up being one of the biggest fights of 2022. In boxing, it’s the punches you don’t see coming that knock you out, and regarding matches – those you least expect often become the most memorable.
In conclusion, amidst the swirl of rumors, the one thing clear is that Eddie Hearn remains focused on promoting exciting match-ups. His commitment dispels any rumors of stagnation and keeps hope alive for fans eager for the unexpected in the ring.
Hearn’s constant endeavors to stage intriguing contests add an extra dimension to the sport. Who knows what the next announcement may be? Until then, boxing enthusiasts can trust in one constant: the promise of an exciting match, somewhere down the line. A spectacle, after all, is what the sport truly craves.
