Eddie Hearn has openly stated that he will soon begin negotiations with WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson (21-0, 10 KOs) in order to sign him to a promoter contract. The American recently confirmed on social media that the fight with Artem Harutyunyan (12-1, 7 KOs) will be his last fight under a contract with the Top Rank promotional organization.
The fight with Arutyunyan will take place on July 6 at a boxing night in his hometown of Newark, but going forward, Stevenson allegedly does not want to renew his contract with Top Rank because he is unhappy with the level of opponents he has faced in his recent pro ring appearances. The American last boxed last November in Las Vegas when he beat Dominican Edwin de los Santos by unanimous decision of the judges.
Promoter Bob Arum has previously stated that he would like to continue his contract with Shakur, but it will all depend on the boxer himself. Matchroom options for Stevenson if Shakur signs with Hearn's company are Andy Cruz, Liam Paro, Subrial Matias, Richardson Hitchins and Jack Catterall.
