LAS VEGAS — Negotiations for a high-stakes unification bout between Shakur Stevenson and WBA champion Gary Antuanne Russell have resumed, signaling a potential shift in the landscape of the super-lightweight division. Stevenson, who signed a promotional deal with Zuffa Boxing earlier this year, is currently seeking his next opponent following a January victory over Teofimo Lopez that secured his status as a four-division world champion.
The path to this matchup has been marked by shifting priorities. Stevenson was previously linked to a December 11 bout against Manny Pacquiao at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, a contest that is no longer expected to proceed. With that option off the table, the focus has returned to Russell, who captured his WBA title by defeating Jose Valenzuela and subsequently defended the belt against Andy Hiraoka.
Discussions regarding the unification match had previously stalled amid public accusations that Russell was avoiding the fight. Russell addressed these claims on social media, citing financial disagreements rather than a lack of competitive intent. “Shakur knows for a fact that we ain’t ducking nothing. How y’all gonna lowball and then classify that as me ducking?” Russell stated.
Stevenson has since publicly acknowledged Russell’s stance, referring to the WBA champion as a “real one” on social media. While no official date or venue has been confirmed for the potential WBO and WBA unification, the prospect of the two meeting later this year has gained traction as both camps work to align on terms.