Promoter Eddie Hearn has criticized retired boxer Shakur Stevenson for his sulking and tantrums instead of returning to the sport. Stevenson recently retired, allegedly due to frustration over not being able to secure big-name fights. Hearn refers to the unbeaten WBC lightweight champion as “Boring,” as many fans find his fighting style unwatchable and detrimental to the sport, leading to a decline in interest in boxing.
Hearn describes Stevenson’s retirement as ridiculous and urges him to come back when he is done with his tantrum. Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, who still has Stevenson under contract for one more fight, is left in a difficult position, unsure of when the boxer will be ready to return.
Despite losing to Cuban boxer Robeisy Ramirez in the 2016 Olympics, Arum signed Stevenson, hoping to turn him into a star. However, Stevenson’s safety-first fighting style has not resonated with fans, making him less marketable than anticipated. Arum has become more accepting of such styles, having previously criticized fighters like Guillermo Rigondeaux for not being fan-friendly. Stevenson’s style is unlikely to change at this point in his career.
Hearn advises Stevenson to focus on his fighting instead of engaging on Twitter. He believes that fans are not interested in reading about Stevenson’s complaints about the politics of boxing and his retirement. Hearn argues that even if Stevenson returns, it is unlikely that people will support him more. However, the real reason fans may not support Stevenson is because they do not enjoy watching fighters who prioritize defense over aggression. This is exemplified by Stevenson’s running style, which is considered one of the most evasive in the sport. It is doubtful that Top Rank will renew his contract.