Stevenson sets sights on Russell for 140lb unification

Shakur Stevenson wants the fight that brings the best out of him: a 140-pound unification showdown with WBA super-lightweight champion Gary Antuanne Russell. Stevenson, the WBO titlist at 140lbs, named Russell as his ideal next opponent. A victory would unify the WBA and WBO belts at super-lightweight, pitting two of the division’s most dangerous punchers against each other.

The 27-year-old Stevenson has already defended his WBO strap twice since capturing it in December 2022, but a unification bout against Russell would catapult him into the pound-for-pound conversation at a higher tier. Russell, 28, holds the WBA title after a 2023 win over then-champion Ismael Barroso. His last ring appearance was a majority-decision loss to unified lightweight king Devin Haney in December 2023, a performance that showcased his resilience despite the setback.

Stevenson’s team has been in preliminary talks with Russell’s camp, according to sources close to both sides, suggesting the fight could be finalized within months. Stylistically, the matchup pits Stevenson’s elite defensive IQ against Russell’s explosive power, a dynamic that often produces fireworks. Stevenson has faced criticism for safety-first performances, but Russell’s aggression forces exchanges.

This isn't just about belts; it is a measuring stick for Stevenson’s chin and adaptability against a proven puncher who has already shared the ring with elite competition like Haney. Strategically, targeting Russell allows Stevenson to consolidate power at 140lbs before chasing the massive paydays awaiting him at welterweight. The super-lightweight division is currently fragmented, and unifying the WBA and WBO titles would make Stevenson the mandatory target for every other contender.

It creates leverage. If he skips this line to chase Haney or Davis immediately, he risks losing his political standing within the sanctioning bodies, potentially complicating future negotiations for the biggest fights in the sport. The financial allure of jumping straight to welterweight to face Gervonta Davis or Devin Haney is undeniable, but the sporting risk is astronomical.

Moving up two weight classes in a short window exposes a fighter to size and power disadvantages that skill alone cannot always overcome. Stevenson’s frame, while filling out at 140, is still relatively compact for a welterweight clash. By solidifying his status at 140, he builds a resume that commands an A-side split even if he eventually moves up.

It protects his market value. A loss to Russell hurts, but a loss at 147 after vacating a title could relegate him to gatekeeper status prematurely. Russell represents the specific stylistic hurdle that Stevenson has yet to clear consistently.

While Stevenson has dominated technically sound opponents, he has rarely faced a volume puncher with Russell’s combination of speed and physicality. The Barroso win proved Russell can dig deep against rugged opposition, and the Haney bout showed he can compete at the highest level despite the scorecards. For Stevenson, this is an opportunity to prove his chin and his heart.

Beating Russell doesn't just add a belt; it adds a layer of toughness to his reputation that has been questioned by fans who prefer action over artistry. However, Stevenson is keeping his options open. He has explicitly named welterweight king Devin Haney and Gervonta Davis as potential targets if the 140lb unification does not materialize.

A jump to 147lbs would be a significant move for the former featherweight and lightweight titlist, testing his power against naturally bigger men. Keyshawn Davis has also been mentioned as a possible interim opponent, but the priority remains securing the belts at super-lightweight before making a risky leap up the scales. “Gary Antuanne Russell is the fight I want,” Stevenson told reporters.

“He’s a true champion who can bring the best out of me. ” What's next: Russell must agree to terms before a deal can be struck. If the unification falls through, Stevenson’s team will likely pivot to Haney or Davis, with a welterweight debut still on the table for late 2024. Read at Boxing News (UK)