Mayweather Promotions’ Bold Bid for Shakur Stevenson: A Revival Strategy

Mayweather Promotions, once riding high with superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis, has faced significant challenges since Davis’ departure in 2022. The loss of their marquee fighter left a void that the company has struggled to fill. Floyd Mayweather, the face and force behind Mayweather Promotions, is now pinning his hopes on a new potential superstar: Shakur Stevenson. With Richard Schaefer, a seasoned executive, now on board to steer the company, Mayweather is banking on securing Stevenson to revive the struggling promotion.

Shakur Stevenson, a talented and highly skilled boxer, has expressed dissatisfaction with his current situation at Top Rank. Despite his considerable abilities and accomplishments, Stevenson has felt sidelined, missing out on the big fights and significant paydays enjoyed by his peers. His frustration is particularly pointed concerning his inability to secure a bout with Vasyl Lomachenko, a fight he has long desired. This dissatisfaction has been exacerbated by seeing fighters like Gervonta Davis, Devin Haney, Ryan García, and Teofimo Lopez surpass him in terms of notoriety, earnings, and high-profile matchups.

As Stevenson approaches the end of his contract with Top Rank, his dissatisfaction has only grown. His final fight under the Top Rank banner is scheduled for July 6th against Artem Harutyunyan, and the sentiment within the company suggests that Stevenson is unlikely to re-sign. Sources within Top Rank, speaking off the record to Brunch Boxing, believe that Floyd Mayweather has a strong chance of bringing Stevenson into the Mayweather Promotions fold.

The potential signing of Stevenson by Mayweather Promotions would feel like a redo of sorts and a full circle moment for both parties. Stevenson was initially a disciple of the Mayweather gym, and many expected him to sign with Mayweather Promotions following his impressive, silver medal performance in the 2016 Olympics. However, Stevenson ultimately chose Top Rank, a decision influenced by the promise of substantial opportunities and big fights that, in his view, have not materialized.

Mayweather’s renewed interest in Stevenson is strategic. Not only would signing Stevenson bring a high-caliber fighter to Mayweather Promotions, but it also carries the potential to facilitate a highly anticipated bout between Stevenson and Gervonta Davis. The relationship between Mayweather and Davis has been icy since Davis left the company. A fight between Davis and Stevenson could allow Mayweather to exact a measure of revenge on his former protege, while also generating a significant amount of interest and revenue. Davis has expressed interest in fighting Stevenson in interviews with BoxingNewsED and through various, now-deleted, social media posts.

Securing Stevenson would represent a major coup for Mayweather Promotions, reestablishing the company as a force in the boxing world. Stevenson’s addition would provide the star power and talent needed to attract attention and elevate the promotion’s profile. Furthermore, this move would ensure the company remains relevant and competitive while they nurture their 17-year-old blue-chip prospect, Curmel Moton, who is seen as a future superstar.

Despite the clear benefits, signing Stevenson is not without its challenges. Top Rank, aware of Stevenson’s value, may attempt to retain him, though their efforts could be hampered by Stevenson’s evident dissatisfaction. Additionally, the competitive landscape of boxing promotions means that other entities may also vie for Stevenson’s signature.

However, if Mayweather Promotions succeeds, the impact could be transformative. Stevenson’s addition would immediately boost the promotion’s standing, drawing in fans, sponsors, and high-profile fight opportunities. The potential Stevenson vs. Davis bout alone could be a major event, reigniting interest in Mayweather Promotions and cementing Mayweather Promotions’ status as a top-tier promotion company.

Floyd Mayweather’s pursuit of Shakur Stevenson represents a bold and strategic effort to revive Mayweather Promotions. By addressing Stevenson’s dissatisfaction and offering him the opportunities he craves, Mayweather is positioning his company for a significant resurgence. The move could not only rejuvenate Mayweather Promotions but also reshape the boxing landscape, providing fans with the high-stakes, high-drama matchups they desire. As Stevenson’s free agency looms, the boxing world watches with bated breath, eager to see if this potential game-changing partnership will come to fruition.