Shakur Stevenson has established himself as one of the top fighters in the lightweight division, sharing the spotlight with names like Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach.
As the reigning WBC lightweight champion, Stevenson could face either fighter in the near future, but one expert believes he needs to make key adjustments to secure a victory.
Davis and Roach recently fought to a controversial majority draw on March 1, allowing ‘Tank‘ to retain his WBA lightweight title. Meanwhile, Stevenson last competed in February on the Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 card, where he secured a ninth-round TKO win over Josh Padley. Despite his reputation as a tactical genius, some believe Stevenson’s style may not be enough to defeat Davis or Roach.
Sanchez: Stevenson must take more risks
Veteran trainer Abel Sanchez, known for coaching former middleweight champion Gennadiy Golovkin, believes Stevenson needs to be more assertive in the ring. Speaking to FightHub TV, Sanchez explained that Stevenson’s measured approach might not work against Davis or Roach.
“He’s gonna have to win rounds. He just doesn’t do enough to win rounds decisively,” Sanchez said. “Just not busy enough at times and too perfect. These guys are gonna do what’s necessary to win rounds.”
Sanchez further emphasized that Stevenson must adopt a more aggressive mindset:
“Shakur has to be a little more forceful, I think, to deal with these guys. I don’t think that his approach can stay the way it is now and be able to deal with a Lamont or with a Gervonta.”
Davis and Roach have unfinished business
Gervonta Davis remains one of boxing’s most dangerous knockout artists, capable of ending fights with a single punch. Lamont Roach, on the other hand, proved his elite status by pushing Davis to a draw, marking the first blemish on ‘Tank’s‘ record. Both fighters appear ready for an immediate rematch, but Stevenson could soon find himself in the mix if he makes the necessary adjustments.
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