Shakur Stevenson Vs. Jamel Herring On The Verge Of Taking Place Next

By: Hans Themistode

Regardless of being shut mates, Shakur Stevenson was at all times keen to place his camaraderie with Jamel Herring apart so as to get a crack at his WBO light-weight title. Whereas reluctant at first, Herring has additionally determined to push their friendship to the facet as properly. Now, each events are formally on the verge of dealing with off.

In keeping with experiences, a deal between Herring and Stevenson is almost full. Though nothing is ready in stone simply but, their contest is prone to happen on the backend of the 12 months. A possible vacation spot for his or her showdown is reportedly Atlanta, Georgia.

For Stevenson (16-0, 8 KOs), the street to changing into a multiple-time world champion has been expedited. Since turning professional in 2017, Stevenson parlayed a 2016 Olympic silver medal right into a world title at 126 kilos in simply two and a half years. Whereas he accomplished a lifelong dream, Stevenson started thirsting for extra gold. He instantly opted to drop his newly received title in his very subsequent battle and commenced life within the light-weight division.

As per WBO guidelines, any champion from their sanctioning physique who strikes up in weight, instantly strikes into the primary contender spot of their new weight class. That means, a conflict with Herring (23-2, 11 KOs) was basically inevitable.

The previous U.S. Marine wasn’t initially serious about dealing with Stevenson, citing their sturdy friendship and a need to pursue different fights. Earlier this 12 months in April, Herring scored the most important win of his profession as he dismantled and in the end stopped former two-division champion Carl Frampton in six rounds.

Instantly following the win, Herring positioned all of his consideration on WBC belt holder, Oscar Valdez. The Mexican native scored an enormous win of his personal earlier this 12 months as he left long-time champion Miguel Berchelt comatose by the tenth spherical.

Regardless of the magnitude of a Herring vs. Valdez showdown, the 35-year-old belt holder isn’t giving up hope on their contest changing into a actuality. First issues first, nonetheless, he’ll must dispatch of a very good buddy, one thing he’s greater than keen to do.

“It might have been a unification and for the lineal title,” mentioned Herring to ESPN. “Why would I not push for that battle? If I’ve to undergo Shakur to get this battle, so be it. He’s an excellent boxer however I’ve been via worse.”