Shakur Stevenson Calls Out Lomachenko: 'No Respect for Him Outside the Ring
In a recent interview with Boxing News on YouTube, undefeated champion Shakur Stevenson made his feelings clear about Vasiliy Lomachenko, expressing his disinterest in facing the Ukrainian boxer after a failed negotiation attempt.
Stevenson, known for his technical prowess and strong opinions both in and out of the ring, acknowledged Lomachenko’s achievements but was quick to call out the 36-year-old’s behavior outside the ring.
“I’m done with that. He said some things to me, but he didn’t want to go up to the boxing room,” Stevenson declared. “I respect him for what he’s accomplished in boxing, but I have no respect for him,” he added.
Stevenson went on to criticize Lomachenko’s attitude when it came to negotiating major fights, suggesting that the Ukrainian fighter’s tough-guy persona didn’t match his actions in the business side of boxing.
“He acted like a tough guy outside of the ring, but he didn’t want to negotiate,” Stevenson remarked. “I don’t see any point for him to box unless he fights me or Gervonta Davis. What else is there for him to do? He could make some easy money, though. Do it if you like it.”
Lomachenko, 36, holds a professional record of 18 wins (12 KOs) and 3 losses. His most recent victory came on May 12, 2024, against George Kambosos in a TKO win that earned him the vacant IBF lightweight title.
Meanwhile, Stevenson remains undefeated with a record of 22 wins (10 KOs). The 26-year-old champion’s most recent win came on July 6, 2024, when he defeated Artem Harutyunyan by unanimous decision, successfully defending his WBC lightweight title.
Stevenson’s comments hint that Lomachenko’s career options are limited unless he pursues a high-profile fight. A potential unification bout between Gervonta Davis and Lomachenko had been discussed for this November in Las Vegas, but those plans were put on hold after Lomachenko entertained the possibility of retirement.
The future of Lomachenko’s career remains uncertain, with Stevenson’s remarks adding further fuel to the speculation about his next move.
