Shakur Stevenson could face Haney weight debate

A catchweight could give critics an easy argument after the fight.

Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson are apparently in advanced talks regarding a bout against each other. Both have agreed in principle, and now all that remains is to iron out the details, specifically, the weight. This isn’t necessarily a problem in itself, but it’s generating a lot of outside commentary. Devin Haney seems to be insisting on a catchweight and a rehydration clause. However, that wouldn’t really play into Shakur Stevenson’s hands, as it would give critics the opportunity to downplay his victory should he win. Chris Mannix sees it that way, too, and said:

“If this fight happens with a catchweight and a rehydration clause, there is no way that Shakur Stevenson is going to get full credit for his win if he wins. If you’re Shakur, you should want to fight this guy on a level playing field”

Mannix backed up his statement with the example of what we saw with Gervonta Davis when he defeated Ryan Garcia. In that case, the contract had long been closely tied to the outcome because it was apparently structured to heavily favor him. Mannix clearly wants to prevent that from happening in this fight. For Shakur Stevenson, it would definitely make more sense to take on a fight at welterweight and endure the physical strain rather than compete in a fight where he can essentially only lose. If the two were to face off at welterweight, that would also pose a significantly higher risk for Shakur Stevenson, but that would make a victory all the more valuable. So far, though, Devin Haney doesn’t seem particularly impressed by this, and it remains to be seen when the fight will be scheduled and at what weight class. What do you think?

I agree with Mannix, but I wouldn’t go overboard. I think it would be more like a few isolated people questioning a victory rather than the masses. Sure, that would be annoying, but there are always people like that, right?