Shakur Stevenson Vs. Frank Martin Called Off, Edwin De Los Santos Could Step In
Shakur Stevenson will no longer face Frank Martin after the latter decided to pull out of their WBC lightweight title clash, as the 23-year-old Edwin De Los Santos could step in.
The pair were in talks over a bout for the vacant WBC belt following Devin Haney’s decision to move up to junior welterweight, as the ‘Dream’ was stripped. And the resulting clash would have seen a battle between two undefeated fighters. According to BoxingScene, both sides had reached a deal verbally prior to the purse bid that was set to go ahead on September 12th, 2023. The financials were agreed by both camps, but a last-minute change from Martin’s side meant the fight no longer went ahead.
In response, Stevenson had this to say: Most ducked fighter in the sport of boxing,” Stevenson
In response, Martin denied avoiding Stevenson.
I Ain’t Duck Shit…
— Frank Martin (@TheGhost_2016) September 11, 2023
This naturally begs the question: who could Stevenson face? Well, the sixth-ranked contender Edwin De Los Santos has previously called out Stevenson. And with a record of 16-1, with 14 wins by way of knockout, the 23-year-old could prove a good test. And by the looks of it, both are ready to get a fight made.
“Edwin get ready I’m tired of yo bitch ass saying my name,” Stevenson
“Remember that I am the danger, Shakur Stevenson. I can’t wait to get this guy in the ring,” De Los Santos
Regardless of what the case may be, this is a massive blow for Stevenson. His other possible bout against Vasiliy Lomachenko is also off the table, as the Ukrainian confirmed that he would not be fighting this year.
Meanwhile, a mega fight with Gervonta Davis does not appear possible after Tank’s trainer, Calvin Ford, questioned the financial side of the fight. So, for now, Stevenson must wait his turn.
Social Media Reaction
Too good to be true. PBC was never going to let Martin fight Shakur. Just like they protect all their other fighters
— Steven Michael (@stvnxmchl) September 10, 2023
More dangerous than Martin
— Kingin 🇪🇸 👑 (@kinginbets) September 10, 2023
Not so fast my friend, Frank might fight De Los Santos 🤦🏾
— 4thward_lyfe (@setlyfe4L) September 9, 2023