In the wake of Shakur Stevenson’s impressive victory over Teofimo Lopez, securing the WBO super lightweight world championship, a potential bout with Conor Benn has sparked considerable debate. Former world champion Carl Froch has weighed in, asserting that Benn is “not ready” for a showdown with Stevenson.
The verbal sparring between Benn and Stevenson began immediately after the American’s triumph in New York. Benn, known for his imposing physique and power, claimed he was too formidable for the four-weight world champion. However, Froch, a former super middleweight titlist, disagrees. “He’s not ready for that yet,” Froch stated, emphasizing that his critique is not meant to disparage Benn.
Stevenson’s call-out of Benn seems strategically motivated. Benn’s popularity in England and his ability to draw a crowd make him an attractive opponent financially. “Stevenson’s probably thinking, Conor Benn’s a big fighter in England, he brings a crowd, so it’ll bring the money,” Froch explained. “So he’ll think, ‘I fancy that, it’s a steady fight.'”
Benn, who has recently competed at middleweight, is looking to return to welterweight. His potential opponents include WBA champion Rolly Romero or the winner of the upcoming clash between Mario Barrios and Ryan Garcia. Froch believes that a bout against the victor of Barrios vs. Garcia is more feasible for Benn at this stage of his career.
“Conor needs a couple of steady fights around world level before he challenges for a world title,” Froch advised. He suggested that fights against Ryan Garcia or Barrios could be winnable for Benn, but a matchup with Stevenson is a different story. “But the Shakur Stevenson one, I just think there’s levels in the game and Conor is not there yet,” Froch concluded.
Stevenson’s dominance over Lopez was evident in his recent fight. His exceptional foot speed and precision left Lopez struggling to keep up, often forcing him into vulnerable positions. Meanwhile, Benn has not fought since his victory over Chris Eubank Jr. in November last year. As both fighters seem keen on facing each other, the boxing world watches with anticipation to see how this potential matchup will unfold.
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