Shakur Stevenson announced his departure from Zuffa Boxing on Monday, ending a promotional stint that lasted less than four months without a single bout scheduled. The 29-year-old Newark, New Jersey native and champion signed a multi-fight deal with the promotional venture on July 9. After spending eight weeks in training camps for matchups that failed to materialize, Stevenson requested his release over the weekend and cleared his contractual obligations to become a free agent, according to his YouTube announcement.
“I’ve been working my ass off, staying focused, staying in shape,” Stevenson said in his video statement. “I’ve been in camp for like eight weeks, preparing for fights that I was told was going to happen, and it has not happened.”
Promotional Plans and Weight Division Targets
Following his release from Zuffa Boxing, Stevenson announced he is launching his own promotional company while remaining open to co-promotional agreements with other networks and promoters. The Ring Magazine and WBO lightweight champion stated that his immediate goals remain fixed on elite opponents at 135 or 140 pounds. He also indicated an eventual move to 147 pounds within the next year or two, insisting that the transition will happen on his own schedule rather than under outside pressure.
SHAKUR STEVENSON HAS SIGNED WITH ZUFFA BOXING ✍️@Zuffa_Boxing x @ShakurStevenson pic.twitter.com/BjRmMVzcoF
Stevenson holds a professional record of 25-0, with his most recent victory coming on January 31, when he defeated Teofimo Lopez by unanimous decision. Recent negotiations for a high-profile bout against fellow American star Devin Haney ultimately broke down due to disputes surrounding weight limits and rehydration clauses.
Zuffa Boxing Schedule and Roster Pressures
Stevenson’s exit delivers a significant setback to Zuffa Boxing as the organization attempts to establish a foothold in the sport. Neither Zuffa Boxing nor Dana White issued an official comment immediately following the announcement.
Zuffa Boxing has no events scheduled in the United States before the end of 2026. Its sole remaining card features Chris Billam-Smith facing Chev Clarke on November 7 at the Copper Box Arena in London. Previous events, such as the September 26 card featuring Johnny Fisher, drew sparse crowds with the upper bowl curtained off at the 7,500-seat venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Shakur Stevenson originally sign with Zuffa Boxing?
Stevenson signed a multi-fight promotional agreement with Zuffa Boxing on July 9, before requesting and receiving his release less than four months later.
Who was Stevenson’s opponent in his most recent professional bout?
Stevenson last competed on January 31, earning a unanimous decision victory over Teofimo Lopez.
What is the next scheduled event for Zuffa Boxing?
Zuffa Boxing has a card headlined by Chris Billam-Smith and Chev Clarke scheduled for Saturday, November 7, at the Copper Box Arena in London.
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