Early in 2024, Stevenson expressed dissatisfaction about not securing major fights and briefly retired. However, he soon returned citing his deep passion for boxing: "He could not stay away from the sport he loves so much." Despite a victory in November over Edwin De Los Santos, critics were quick to point out that Stevenson's performance was subdued. He later revealed that an injury had hampered his ability during the fight saying, "He was fighting with an injury that meant he had to hold back."
???? BRICK CITY WORLD TITLE DOUBLEHEADER ????
— Top Rank Boxing (@trboxing) May 7, 2024
Headlined by Newark’s own @ShakurStevenson ????#ShakurArtem | @PruCenter | On-sale May 22 pic.twitter.com/BfeVuHU6vs
Top Rank formally confirmed Stevenson’s upcoming bout, which is set as a critical defense of his title. It could be Stevenson's final performance under Top Rank unless he extends his deal. Such freedom could potentially open avenues for negotiations with other notable fighters like Devin Haney who is associated with DAZN.
Other noteworthy matches on July 6 include Keyshawn Davis facing Miguel Madueño in a 10-round lightweight contest and O'Shaquie Foster battling Robson Conceição for the chief support slot as WBC super featherweight champion.