Many fans on social media believe Shakur Stevenson is making a mistake moving up to 140 to face Teofimo Lopez in early 2026.
Shakur’s lack of size, strength and physicality is why the doubters are picking Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs) to win this January 31, 2026 bout. WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo has repeatedly shown he can fight in the pocket and trade with heavy-handed opponents.
We haven’t seen Stevenson hold his own against real punch since he turned professional in 2017. Across the three divisions in which he competed, he faced only one true power threat: Edwin De Los Santos. In their November 2023 fight, Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs) boxed on the move for most of the 12 rounds.
Shakur’s post on social media earlier today — in which he said he won’t compete on Thanksgiving because Teofimo predicted he’d make him quit — suggests he’s taking this matchup extremely seriously. When fighters adjust their routines around a training camp, it usually means the stakes feel high.
“No thanksgiving this year for me. Dude said he’d make me sit up on the chair or kick me out…WE’RE WORKING TODAY. F**IT,”* Shakur said X.
Shakur’s last fight was against volume puncher William Zepeda, and he absorbed more shots than we usually see from him. He stood his ground much more than usual, and the pace of that fight left visible marks on him by the final bell. This was against a fighter not known for single press power. Teofimo presents a very different challenge, and the stylistic fit will be demanding.
Hopefully, Shakur and his team have fully evaluated what comes with this jump to 140 and the threat that Lopez poses on January 31st. A loss here would complicate Stevenson’s plans for 2026, including possible fights against Conor Benn and Lamont Roach. Those matches could be pushed aside depending on what happens with Teo.
Last updated on 28/11/2025
