Zuffa Boxing signed Shakur Stevenson to a lucrative contract, but the company still lacks the opponent needed to make that investment work. Devin Haney may be the only available fighter who can give Shakur the major event his deal demands.
“If Zuffa doesn’t get Devin Haney, what do they do with Shakur Stevenson, who’s on a contract that pays him more than $10 million a fight?” Chris Mannix asked during his podcast. Lance Pugmire replied that Shakur’s purse may reach $15 million.
Mannix mentioned Rayo Valenzuela as an option, though Shakur has already shown little interest in that matchup, repeatedly rejecting the fight. Zuffa can make the bout because both boxers are under its control, but Mannix sees Shakur winning without much resistance.
“Shakur versus Rayo, I think Shakur picks him apart if we’re being real,” Mannix said. “I think that’s another wipeout type of fight for Shakur Stevenson that just doesn’t move the needle in the way that Zuffa needs Shakur to move the needle.”
Raymond Muratalla was considered before Shakur signed with Zuffa. That route is no longer realistic. Top Rank has Muratalla positioned for an IBF lightweight title defense against Robson Conceicao, followed by a possible fight with the Lamont Roach Jr. versus William Zepeda winner.
Gary Antuanne Russell has also shown no urgency to face Shakur. He has other paths at light welterweight that carry less risk.
Haney gives Zuffa the marquee opponent Shakur needs. Fans already recognize the rivalry, making the fight easier to sell. Stevenson also wants the fight.
Without Haney, Zuffa may be left paying a premium purse for Shakur to dominate an opponent few fans believe can beat him.
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Last Updated on 2026/07/22 at 3:20 PM
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