The recent WBC lightweight championship bout between Shakur Stevenson and Edwin De Los Santos left much to be desired. In fact, it may go down as one of the worst fights in recent memory. As a long-time fan of the sport, I found myself thoroughly disappointed by the lack of action and lackluster performance from both fighters. The crowd’s boos and jeers echoed throughout the arena, reflecting the general sentiment of the audience.
Stevenson, a popular boxer, seemed uninterested in throwing punches and fighting with any real intent. This decision to adopt a passive approach could harm his overall reputation in the sport. While he technically won the fight, his lack of engagement and entertainment value may deter fans from watching his future bouts. It’s a precarious situation to be in for any fighter. On one hand, their primary goal is to win while minimizing the risk of injury. Boxing is an inherently dangerous sport, and it’s understandable that boxers would want to prioritize their safety. However, playing it safe is not always appealing to the audience.
Boxers like Floyd Mayweather, Pernell Whitaker, and Willie Pep were able to pull off a defensive style while still captivating the audience. They possessed the skill and finesse to outwit their opponents, making their fights thrilling to watch. Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Ray Robinson, on the other hand, were not only able to avoid getting hurt but also capable of delivering knockout punches and engaging in slick fighting.
Stevenson is now faced with a crucial decision. If he continues to deliver lackluster fights, even occasionally, his chances of becoming a big name in the sport will diminish. Despite his undeniable talent, no one will want to witness another uneventful bout like the one on Thursday evening. However, Stevenson himself has acknowledged his “bad performance,” indicating his dissatisfaction with the fight. To salvage his reputation and popularity, he must act swiftly. Returning to the ring sooner rather than later would allow people to forget about this lackluster display and give Stevenson an opportunity to showcase his true potential once again.
ESPN, too, played a part in this disappointing event. By choosing to delay the start of the fight until midnight on the east coast, they alienated many fans who were unable or unwilling to stay up that late. This decision must be critically examined moving forward. Without a valid explanation, there is simply no justification for inconveniencing viewers and forcing them to stay up late for the main event.
The Stevenson vs. De Los Santos fight was a letdown for fans and supporters of the sport. Both fighters failed to deliver an entertaining and engaging match, resulting in a lack of excitement and dissatisfaction among the audience. Stevenson now stands at a crossroads, where his future in the sport hinges on his ability to learn from this experience and stage a comeback. Likewise, ESPN must reassess their decision-making process to ensure they prioritize the convenience and satisfaction of their viewers. Only by making critical choices can boxing regain the popularity it deserves.
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