“Let’s make this fight happen. I have everything it takes to shock the world! @shakurstevenson”
Ring Magazine highlighted the challenge Friday, presenting Valenzuela as a potential in-house opponent for Stevenson following Shakur’s blockbuster deal with Zuffa Boxing.
The callout comes just days after Stevenson publicly rejected talk of facing Valenzuela, instead making it clear he wants marquee fights against Devin Haney and Gervonta Davis. Shakur has repeatedly described his relationship with Zuffa Boxing as a partnership and has indicated he does not want to be limited to fighting only opponents signed to the promotion.
Valenzuela, however, believes he has the style to test Shakur. A pressure fighter with knockout power, “Rayo” has built his reputation on aggression and physicality, qualities many fans have argued could create an interesting contrast against Stevenson’s defensive, counterpunching approach.
It remains to be seen if Zuffa pursues the matchup. The promotion’s current roster at 140 pounds and 135 pounds is relatively thin compared to the broader boxing landscape, making Stevenson one of its biggest attractions. Valenzuela’s public challenge gives Zuffa another possible option if negotiations for higher-profile fights cannot be completed.
Shakur has given no indication that Valenzuela is among the opponents he wants next, leaving the challenge unanswered despite Rayo’s confidence that he has what it takes to “shock the world.”
