Report: Stevenson To Face Caraballo On June 9

Just a few days after his announced fight with Rafael Rivera was nixed, Shakur Stevenson appears to have found a new opponent.

Andre Ward, the co-manager of Stevenson (13-0), went on ESPN to talk about a new opportunity for the 22-year-old. Mexico’s Rivera was unable to enter the United States due to travel restrictions as a result of the coronavirus. Ward mentioned to Joe Tessitore that Felix Caraballo may be the next opponent for the WBO Featherweight Champion. After first stating he wouldn’t be ready, Ward went on to state that June 9 will in fact be when Stevenson returns to action.

“Obviously he’s excited,” Ward stated. “He wants to get back in the ring. A throwback mentality type of fighter. He’s a young fighter. He’s in the gym, he’s working out, excited to be back in early June. He recently just had an opponent change because his opponent is in Mexico, he’s having issues getting over. He’s now facing, I believe it’s Felix Caraballo.

“Don’t know much about him. Shakur texted me and said, ‘Hey I haven’t watched the tape yet, what do you think about him?’ I said ‘Felix is in big trouble come June 9.’”

Caraballo (13-1-2) is on a five-fight win streak and has nine wins via knockout. Fighting out of Puerto Rico, Caraballo is coming off of a TKO-win over Sergio Lopex back in January. He may be an improvement over Rivera (27-4-2), who is 2-2 in his last four fights. His last bout was a loss to Jessie Magdaleno back in August.

Stevenson last fought in October, beating Joet Gonzalez via unanimous decision. He was originally set to face off against Miguel Marriaga inside Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater on March 14. The card was postponed due to the virus.

Top Rank is hoping to return to Nevada in June for multiple events. All of this will be depending on the Nevada Atheltic Commission and its upcoming hearing this Wednesday.