Shakur Stevenson’s tenure with Top Rank may be nearing its end as his contract is set to conclude after his upcoming July 6th bout, prompting speculation that Matchroom could be his next destination. Matchroom Sports chairman Eddie Hearn has hinted at the possibility during a recent interview.
With Shakur Stevenson (21-0, 10 KOs) approaching the end of his contract with Top Rank following his upcoming fight against Artem Harutyunyan (12-1, 7 KOs) on July 6th, Eddie Hearn discussed the potential opportunity to sign Stevenson to Matchroom.
“If Shakur [Stevenson] wants to pledge his future [to Matchroom], then you [have to] make a significant investment,” Hearn asserted to members of the media. “If it’s a two/three-fight deal, then he’s going to get a lot of money, and he’s got to work for you as well.
“I think Shakur is pound-for-pound one of the best fighters in the world. He may be unbeatable, he’s that good, but I think he’s been promoted terribly.
“I think some of that is because Bob [Arum]―when Bob knows a fighter’s looking to leave, he’s out. This probably happened two or three fights ago because Bob would have looked to extend back then. Bob doesn’t look to extend now, with one fight to go―because you got no leverage to change the purses, so once he knew that Shakur wasn’t going to extend, he’s made his mind up. He’s out.“
Stevenson, 26, has been with Top Rank since turning professional in 2017 but is expected to explore free agency after his upcoming bout. As an undefeated multi-division world champion, Stevenson has several options, including potentially joining Matchroom, a UK-based promotion known for acquiring top talent.
Matchroom has recently expanded its roster with fighters from various countries, notably focusing on American talent such as Jaron Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs), who recently joined the promotion.
During his interview, Hearn emphasized the importance of Stevenson signing a multi-fight contract, possibly alluding to recent controversies involving Devin Haney (31-0, 15 KOs). Haney recently expressed concerns when it became known that Top Rank, the promoter of Sandor Martin (42-1, 15 KOs), was the sole bidder at the purse bid for the WBC-mandated super lightweight (140 lbs) bout between him and Martin. Haney had expected Matchroom to bid on the fight due to their relationship, but he later realized that as a free agent, Matchroom was not obligated to participate in purse bids involving him.
Hearn also commented on Bob Arum’s management style, alleging a tendency to reduce promotional efforts for fighters not committed long-term. This echoes past instances where fighters, including Terence Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs), parted ways with Top Rank amid issues related to a lack of promotion.
Shakur Stevenson acknowledged Hearn’s comments with a brief response, posting a bullseye emoji on Twitter/X in reaction to Hearn’s statements. While focused on his upcoming July 6th fight preparations, Stevenson’s reaction could suggest potential interest in a departure from Top Rank, and a future association with Matchroom.
