Jose Valenzuela wants Shakur Stevenson, but big obstacles stand in the way

“I want Shakur Stevenson. He’s a hell of a fighter. I’d love to compete with him,” Valenzuela told Max Kellerman after his win at Zuffa Boxing 08.

Valenzuela believes his aggressive style gives him the blueprint to beat the undefeated champion.

“Styles make fights. I’m a real fighter, and he’s a boxer. Me believe his kryptonite is a fighter like me.”

While the challenge was direct, making the fight is another matter.

Valenzuela is not currently ranked in the top 15 by the WBA, WBC, IBF or WBO at lightweight. Unless the WBO agrees to sanction the fight, Stevenson is unlikely to be able to defend his title against an unranked challenger.

There is also little commercial incentive for Stevenson. While Valenzuela’s knockout of De Los Santos was impressive, he has yet to establish himself as a major draw. At the same time, his strength makes him a dangerous assignment for any lightweight. Stevenson has faced only one comparable puncher in recent years—De Los Santos—and their November 2023 fight was heavily criticized by fans after Stevenson relied on movement for 12 rounds to win a unanimous decision.

Valenzuela’s win over De Los Santos could also attract attention. Replays appeared to show him landing a hard follow-up right hand after De Los Santos had already fallen to the canvas. Referee Thomas Taylor did not warn Valenzuela or deduct a point before calling off the bout.

The Nevada State Athletic Commission could be asked to review the finish after replays showed the extra punch landed while De Los Santos was down. Whether the commission takes action or De Los Santos’ team files a protest remains to be seen, but the controversial order could become one of the biggest talking points to emerge from Zuffa Boxing 08.