Sergio Mora Says Shakur Stevenson Costs Himself Biggest Fights

Discussing Shakur’s pursuit of a showdown with Devin Haney, Mora argued that elite-level skills alone are not enough. He believes the unbeaten former three-division world champion has become so focused on avoiding punishment that he has made himself less appealing for the blockbuster matchups he wants.

“Shakur Stevenson is not going to get the fights that we’re discussing because he doesn’t put himself on the line to actually entertain,” Mora said on Chris Mannix’ channel. “I was a pure boxer, but I didn’t have the ability of Shakur. If I had Shakur’s reaction time, his speed, his southpaw prowess, that amateur background, I would take more chances, man, because I can take more chances.

“He doesn’t do that. He doesn’t put himself in a position to have to get touched. Not one glove, not one punch touches this man. And that’s the reason he won’t get these big fights.”

While Mora focused on Shakur’s defensive style, negotiations have also become part of the discussion surrounding his pursuit of marquee opponents. Shakur has sought a 144-pound catchweight for a fight with Devin Haney and publicly urged Haney to vacate the WBO welterweight title before the bout. He has also targeted Ryan Garcia and Conor Benn, both established welterweights, despite not yet campaigning in the division himself.

Mora acknowledged Shakur’s technical brilliance, comparing him to chess legend Bobby Fischer, but believes fans and promoters ultimately gravitate toward fighters willing to take greater risks inside the ring.

“This man’s done it in three divisions. He’s the goods. You mentioned chess. He’s a grandmaster in boxing. This guy’s like Bobby Fischer with boxing gloves,” Mora said. “But Shakur is in the business of Shakur. So, I respect it. Make your money. Keep that undefeated zero, but don’t expect to get the big fights if you’re not going to put yourself in the line of fire. That’s just how this business is.”