Let’s face it, the recent WBC lightweight championship bout between Shakur Stevenson and Edwin De Los Santos left a lot to be desired. In fact, it may very well be one of the worst fights in recent memory. As a long-time fan of the sport, I was truly disappointed by the lack of action and passion displayed in the ring that night. Both fighters failed to throw many punches, and what’s more, Stevenson, the fan-favorite, seemed disinterested in engaging with his opponent. This lackluster performance may have lasting consequences for Stevenson’s reputation in the boxing world.
Stevenson’s decision to fight on autopilot in front of a booing crowd and ESPN cameras is a choice that could have serious repercussions for his career. While he may have won the fight fair and square, his reluctance to assert himself and take risks does not make for an entertaining viewing experience. Boxing is a dangerous sport, and it is understandable that fighters want to prioritize their safety. However, playing it safe does not always translate into an appealing performance for the audience.
Throughout history, there have been fighters who were able to both win decisively and captivate the audience. Fighters like Floyd Mayweather, Pernell Whitaker, Willie Pep, Muhammad Ali, Ray Leonard, and Ray Robinson possessed the ability to skillfully outbox their opponents while also putting on a show. Stevenson finds himself at a crossroads – should he continue to engage in lackluster fights and risk diminishing his potential as a big name in the sport, or should he strive to entertain the fans and showcase his world-class talent?
Despite his underwhelming performance, Stevenson himself has acknowledged the disappointment of his “bad performance” in the fight. This self-awareness indicates that he understands the importance of satisfying both his own desire for success and the expectations of the fans. To regain his popularity as a ring attraction, Stevenson needs to step back into the ring as soon as possible, instead of taking a prolonged break. By doing so, he can demonstrate growth and improvement, erasing the memory of his lackluster bout from the minds of the audience.
However, the blame for the lackluster performance cannot be placed solely on Stevenson’s shoulders. Edwin De Los Santos did not bring the intensity and excitement that fans were hoping for, and ESPN also played a role in dampening the atmosphere of the fight. By choosing to start the fight late at midnight on the east coast, ESPN failed to prioritize the convenience and engagement of their viewers. If the network genuinely wants to provide the best possible experience for boxing fans, they need to reassess their scheduling decisions and ensure that the main event is given the prominence it deserves.
The Stevenson vs. De Los Santos fight was a disappointing display of boxing that left fans feeling unsatisfied and unenthusiastic. Shakur Stevenson has a choice to make regarding the path he wants to take in his career – one that prioritizes playing it safe or one that seeks to entertain and captivate the audience. Similarly, ESPN must reconsider their decisions to ensure that the viewing experience for fans is both convenient and exciting. Hopefully, in the future, we will see Stevenson rise to the occasion and deliver the thrilling performances that his talent promises.
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