In a recent development, the boxing world witnessed an engaging interaction as Shakur Stevenson gave Haney advice after his loss to Ryan Garcia. Stevenson, the famous world Featherweight Champion, did not refrain from expressing his opinions on the fight, and further, sounded off on those who labelled his boxing style as boring.
After the stunning lightweight duel between Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia ended with Garcia’s victorious performance, Stevenson publicly offered advice to the defeated Haney via social media. Known for his no-holding-back mindset, Stevenson urged Haney to “[be] the smarter guy in every boxing situation possible.”
Stevenson’s advice to Haney serves as a reminder of his strong technical prowess as a boxer. With sheer skill and adaptability, Stevenson has surfaced as a class act in all his fights so far. His advice to Haney seems to draw from his own boxing principle that is primarily about “winning smartly and efficiently.”
However, Shakur Stevenson’s advice to Devin Haney was only the start of the conversation. He also sounded off on critics who called his style boring. The Olympic Silver Medallist was clearly irked by critics who have commented on his lack of knockouts and consequently labelled his fighting strategy as boring.
“People who call me boring don’t understand boxing. Boxing is not about standing there and getting hit, it’s about hitting and not getting hit. I make that happen better than anyone else,” retorted Stevenson. The Featherweight champion’s comments were a direct response to those critics who have questioned his cautious yet efficient approach inside the ring.
Stevenson’s defensive playing style has been an appeal for boxing connoisseurs who appreciate the art of ‘hit and don’t get hit.’ Despite his lower knockout percentage compared to some other fighters, his immaculate precision and impeccable defensive skills have distinguished him as one of the most refined boxers in the sport today. While Stevenson’s style may not guarantee a knockout-filled spectacle for the casual boxing viewer, purists argue that his technique is a true embodiment of boxing finesse and intelligence.
It’s important to note that the New Jersey native is still in the early stages of a promising career, and critics may be too quick to judge his style. With a sterling record of 16 wins and no losses, Shakur Stevenson holds a commendable position in the boxing world, and his commitment to his style of fighting is unwavering.
Shakur Stevenson’s advice to Haney and his response to critics are indicative of his understanding and respect for the artistry involved in boxing. His approach forces fans and critics alike to re-evaluate the parameters they use to judge a boxer’s performance. According to Stevenson, boxing is not merely about delivering hard hits or thrilling spectators with a knockout—it is also about strategic and tactical game-play that caters to long-term success.
In conclusion, while the critics are entitled to their own take on Stevenson’s style, it’s undeniable that his calibre and recent stances are driving the boxing enthusiasts and practitioners to have nuanced discussions. His insights pose a fitting reminder that boxing, at its core, remains an inherently strategic and smart sport. As the future matches unfold, it’ll be exciting to see how his style evolves and potentially quashes the criticism that has come his way.
