Shakur Stevenson On Preferred Next Opponent

While many thought he could face Devin Haney next, Shakur Stevenson stated in a recent post to social media that he feels Gary Antuanne Russell would bring out the best in him as a boxer.

Stevenson (25-0) most recently squared off with Teofimo Lopez back in January, earning the win by unanimous decision and taking home the WBO super lightweight title. Through this victory, he solidified his status as a four-division world champion at just 28 years old.

Russell (19-1) most recently secured his first WBA 140-pound title defense over Andy Hiraoka back in February. He earned the belt initially by outpointing Jose Valenzuela in March 2025 on the undercard of Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach Jr. in Brooklyn.

While Stevenson seems to have many high-profile fights as options on the horizon, it seems he is most interested in the super lightweight title unification bout with Russell.

I rather fight Antuanne Russell.. That’s a fighter who will bring the best out of me!! https://t.co/fSXoGn1IDb

— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) June 29, 2026