WBA champion says a Devin Haney-Shakur Stevenson showdown would become a slow tactical battle rather than an action fight
Gary Antuanne Russell does not believe a fight between Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson would live up to the hype. The WBA junior welterweight champion predicts the matchup would turn into a cautious tactical battle and questioned whether fans would enjoy the action.
“I think it would be boring,” said on Brian Custer’s site.
“Two boxers. Two boxers, a long, slow chess match. I’m talking about a stalemate at that. Not even I cornered you. I got you. It’s going to be a stalemate.”
Russell acknowledged that the fight would likely generate strong business because of the uncertainty surrounding the outcome, but he questioned whether it would provide the kind of entertainment fans are hoping for.
“I honestly don’t think that’ll be a fight that would be drooling over. I wouldn’t drool over that fight. It’ll make the money because people will still be in an unknown position,” said Antuanne.
The 29-year-old did give Shakur credit for showing a more aggressive side in recent outings, noting that the Newark native has proven he can fight in the pocket when he chooses to.
“Shakur showed himself that he can be in the pocket instead of just being defensively disciplined, not getting touched at all. Fighters are supposed to be well-rounded. They’re supposed to be able to do it all,” said Russell.
While Haney and Shakur remain without a finalized agreement, both names continue to be mentioned among the biggest potential fights in boxing’s lower weight classes. Antuanne, meanwhile, is targeting unification fights at 140 pounds and revealed that talks are underway for a possible clash with Isaac Cruz later this year.
