Tim Bradley, well-respected commentator, believes Shakur Stevenson should pay no mind to the critics who label him a defensive, pure boxer. Despite those who say Stevenson shies away from getting hit, Bradley advises him to stick with his current approach, secure his wins, and head home with a paycheck in hand.
The echo of history is clear in Bradley’s words, as he urges Shakur to embrace a traditional boxing style reminiscent of ages past. Some might think this approach is outdated, especially when today’s younger fans crave spectacle and excitement, but Bradley stands by it. Realistically, Shakur lacks other viable options.
Reflecting on Modern Audience Expectations
It’s worth noting how fans used to label Floyd Mayweather Jr as “boring,” yet he thrived financially with his cautious approach in the ring. Bradley notes, however, that Mayweather’s success came before the boom of MMA and the vast array of entertainment we see today thanks to the internet. If Mayweather were to rise now, he might have to engage in more than just boxing to capture public interest and become a pay-per-view superstar.
In a candid chat with Fighthype, Bradley shared, “Get in that ring and handle your business. Just keep on winning. Folks used to say the same about Mayweather – ‘he’s boring.’ Don’t let that get to you. Stick to your style, no matter the noise from the casuals.”
Although Bradley believes Shakur could eventually rise to stardom without change, this hasn’t manifested yet. He seems to be trailing behind a new wave of thrilling young fighters. Unfortunately, Shakur doesn’t have the knockout power that could transform his fighting style. Attempting to do so might just lead to his downfall in the boxing ring.
The last fight against Josh Padley this past February was telling. Shakur absorbed more punches than usual. If he were to go toe-to-toe with a puncher like Jadier Herrera, it could end disastrously. This highlights why Jadier wasn’t on the opponent list; Shakur needed a chance to shine rather than survive.
Navigating Shifting Fan Demands
“As long as you’re heading home with that check and a win to your name, while showing your skills every time you step into the ring, keep doing what you’re doing,” Bradley adds earnestly. “If I had it to do over, I’d model my career after Shakur’s.”
Bradley acknowledges that the fan base today just doesn’t have the patience for the defensive tactics seen in boxing’s safety-first fighters. With the rise of MMA, fans are conditioned to expect quick, decisive outcomes – knockouts and submissions. The younger generation, distracted by a host of online and TV content, gravitates more toward action-packed sports.
The takeaway is clear: Shakur Stevenson is caught between a traditional boxing approach and modern fans’ ever-evolving expectations, yet he continues to make his way, fights and paychecks secured.
