Shakur Stevenson accused of avoiding Foster before Zuffa Boxing debut

O’Shaquie Foster has accused Shakur Stevenson of avoiding a fight between the two world champions, saying their previous sparring relationship makes the WBO super-lightweight title holder nervous. Stevenson has not yet named an opponent for his Zuffa Boxing debut.

Stevenson became a four-division world champion in January after beating Teofimo Lopez. The Newark southpaw has not fought since that victory, although possible opponents have included Devin Haney, Conor Benn, Raymond Muratalla and Foster.

Foster said Stevenson had previously indicated that he could receive a title opportunity if he beat Raymond Ford. Foster did so in May, and the two fighters then faced each other after the bout. Negotiations did not progress after that meeting.

The WBC super-featherweight champion believes Stevenson knows his abilities well because they trained together in Virginia and have shared sparring sessions. Foster also pointed to Stevenson’s habit of working with fighters before facing them, arguing that the champion has not gained the same advantage over him.

Foster is now preparing for a major move at super-featherweight. He will meet Emanuel Navarrete on October 24 in a three-belt unification bout, with Navarrete holding the WBO and IBF championships. Foster said Stevenson would remain a target after that contest and mentioned him as the next opponent he wants if he defeats Navarrete.

The other 130-pound world title will be contested on December 19, when Anthony Cacace defends the WBA belt against Nick Ball. Stevenson has also been linked with Muratalla, who recently gave up his lightweight title after earlier discussions about moving to 140 pounds for their proposed fight.