World champion let go by Zuffa without ever fighting for Dana White’s promotion in a strange turn of events
One of the biggest names signed by Zuffa Boxing has surprisingly been released from his contract.
This year, Zuffa Boxing, led by Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh and UFC boss Dana White, has shaken things up by signing some big stars to major deals.
After announcing a huge deal for Conor Benn, Zuffa also revealed that multi-weight world champ Shakur Stevenson had joined. But now, it’s been revealed that the 29-year-old was let go before even fighting for them.
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Since joining Zuffa, Stevenson was reportedly in talks to fight WBO welterweight champ Devin Haney, but those talks fell apart. It seems disagreements over weight caused the Haney fight to fall through, and planned matches with Manny Pacquiao and Gary Antuanne Russell didn’t happen either.
“I’ve been working really hard and staying focused,” Stevenson said on his YouTube channel.
“I’ve been in camp for eight weeks, training for fights I was told would happen but didn’t.
“It is what it is, that’s just how boxing goes. I’m not upset or blaming anyone.
“With everything going on, I asked to be released from Zuffa Boxing, and this weekend my request was granted. I’m officially a free agent.”
In his last fight in January, Stevenson won by decision against Teofimo Lopez.
He added, “I’m taking control of my career now and starting my own promotional company.
“I’m open to working with other promoters serious about my career.
“I’m excited to start this new chapter.
“But my goal stays the same: I want the biggest fights at 135lbs or 140lbs, where I hold my title.
“Maybe in a year or two, I’ll move up to 147lbs, which everyone keeps pushing me towards.
“I’m also open to co-promoting and working with any networks.”
As of now, neither Dana White nor Zuffa have officially confirmed this news.
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Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn, who has been at odds with White since Zuffa’s arrival, was quick to poke fun about the news. With talks of Stevenson possibly rejoining Matchroom — which promoted his last three fights — Hearn clearly loves this update.
Shortly after the news, Hearn posted a funny AI photo of himself smoking a cigar on FaceTime with Anthony Joshua, making a playful jab at White, who posted a similar photo with Turki Alalshikh after confirming Joshua vs. Tyson Fury. Hearn also added the song “Body of Work,” a phrase White often uses about Zuffa Boxing.
In another clip, Hearn celebrated the news using a famous dance move tied to John Stones’ shoulder injury.