Chris Algieri has boldly asserted that there is one fighter who stands a significant chance of defeating Shakur Stevenson. This fighter, in Algieri's opinion, possesses the necessary size, intelligence in the ring, and stamina to create a challenging matchup against Stevenson.
Stevenson, at just 28 years old, has firmly established himself as one of the top five pound-for-pound boxers today. Many boxing enthusiasts are left wondering if he will ever face defeat in his professional career. His recent performance was nothing short of remarkable, as he became a four-division world champion last month by outpointing Teofimo Lopez, a victory that allowed him to seize the WBO super-lightweight title.
Before this bout, Lopez was often considered the frontrunner in the 140lbs category, while Stevenson's capabilities at this higher weight class were still untested. However, Stevenson quickly quelled any doubts about his dominance at both 135 and 140lbs, losing only a single round during the fight before celebrating his victory in Madison Square Garden, New York.
Many observers believe that the real test for Stevenson might come at 147lbs, where he could encounter WBO champion Devin Haney—potentially his most formidable opponent yet. Haney, now 27, captured his welterweight title in November, thus becoming a three-division world champion after decisively outpointing Brian Norman Jr.
In addition to this recent triumph, Haney's notable victories include wins against high-caliber opponents such as Regis Prograis and Vasyl Lomachenko. Some fans even argue that Lomachenko did enough to earn a decision over Haney in their 2023 bout.
However, Algieri made it clear during an interview with Inside Boxing Live that he believes 'The Dream'—referring to Haney—has the best chance of unraveling the complexities of facing Stevenson, particularly due to Haney's experience against elite fighters like Lomachenko.
"Devin Haney has the best chance of beating Stevenson," Algieri stated confidently. "He’s large, has good length, is athletic, boasts a high ring IQ, employs a great jab, possesses nimble footwork, and exhibits incredible endurance. These are all essential attributes if anyone hopes to challenge Shakur Stevenson.
Haney not only has the physical tools but also the experience and maturity gained from fighting top-tier opponents. Being in a competitive match against someone like Lomachenko speaks volumes about his capability to handle skilled fighters.
If Stevenson were to secure a victory over Haney, he would become a five-weight world champion, thereby matching the illustrious achievements of his long-time friend and mentor, Terence Crawford.
