Legendary boxing promoter Bob Arum thinks Shakur Stevenson can become bigger than Marvin Hagler. The Top Rank boss believes the young champ has what it takes to surpass one of boxing's all-time greats.
Hagler was a force in the sport for most of the 70s and 80s. He held the undisputed heavyweight title for seven years and beat some of the best, including Roberto Duran and Thomas 'Hitman' Hearns.
Arum knows a thing or two about Hagler. He promoted him when he was at the top of his game. Hagler started fighting in New England but soon became a star in Las Vegas. Fans from New England would travel in droves to watch him fight, and every casino wanted to host his bouts.
Now, Arum sees something special in Stevenson. He told the 27-year-old from Newark, New Jersey:
"As good as he was, and he was great, you're gonna surpass him. I really believe that."
Stevenson's on a roll. He's the WBC lightweight champ and hasn't lost in 23 pro fights. He just defended his title against Josh Padley on February 22. He's already won world titles in three weight classes and wants to rule the 135lb division.
Stevenson's got big plans. He wants to unify the lightweight titles and might even try his hand at a fourth weight class. Arum's not working with Stevenson anymore, but he still thinks highly of the young fighter's skills.
It's a big call from Arum. Hagler's one of the best ever, and Stevenson's got a long way to go. But if Arum's right, we might be watching the start of something really special in the boxing world.
