Shakur Stevenson Withdraws from Fight Amid Financial Dispute

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Boxer Shakur Stevenson announced his withdrawal from a scheduled fight against William Zepeda due to a financial disagreement with promoter Turki. Stevenson revealed the news on social media on April 6, 2025, claiming that Turki had reneged on a financial promise, impacting his decision to proceed with the bout.

“Turki promised me a number and now he going way back on that number that he promised me and sending his towel boys to run me the info instead telling me straight up what he trying to do.. Ion bow down to nobody Mr. De La Hoya now let’s negotiate!” Stevenson tweeted.

While Stevenson did not disclose the specific financial terms, the situation suggests a significant shift in focus for the fighter, who appears more motivated by monetary gain than enhancing his legacy or popularity in the ring. Many are questioning what happened to Stevenson’s intent to prove himself as the best in lightweight boxing.

Commentators speculate if the financial amount offered for the fight with Zepeda, who boasts a record of 33 wins and 27 knockouts, might be comparable to Stevenson’s earning from his last fight against Josh Padley on February 22, 2025.

The prospect of a Zepeda fight itself is seen as problematic due to Zepeda’s recent performances, which have drawn criticism from fans and analysts alike. The boxer’s lackluster results against Tevin Farmer have arguably diminished his appeal as a main event fighter.

“If Stevenson was expecting to get $10 million for a title defense against Zepeda, he’s fooling himself. He’s NOT a PPV attraction,” warned one boxing analyst, highlighting that selling a Stevenson vs. Zepeda fight could be financially detrimental.

Since moving up to the lightweight division in 2023, Stevenson has struggled to increase his popularity. His fights, including a controversial performance against Edwin De Los Santos, where he faced booing from the crowd for his defensive strategy, have failed to impress fans.

Additionally, his choice to face the less potent Padley over a more challenging opponent like Jadier Herrera raised eyebrows among boxing enthusiasts and industry insiders. It has led to concerns that he is being strategically matched against easier fights to avoid further detrimental outcomes.

With ongoing negotiations surrounding the Zepeda fight unclear, industry insiders remark that Turki should consider shifting focus to more exciting fighters instead of waiting for Stevenson to decide. As Stevenson’s path unfolds, the boxing community watches closely for his next moves in a sport where financial and legacy interests often intertwine.

Meanwhile, Tim Tszyu also made headlines over the weekend with a fourth-round technical knockout of Joey Spencer in Newcastle, Australia. Tszyu expressed his desire for a big fight next and mentioned potential opponents including Keith Thurman and Jermell Charlo, bringing additional excitement to the boxing landscape.