O’Shaquie Foster argues that Devin Haney presents a far trickier technical challenge for Shakur Stevenson than Teofimo Lopez ever did. In his view, Stevenson’s victory over Lopez fails to prove how he would manage Haney’s specific tools.
While Foster stopped short of outright picking Haney, his breakdown casts doubt on Stevenson’s ability to rely on his trademark patience. He sees a scenario where Stevenson must abandon his comfort zone to press the action against an opponent who scores effectively from range.
“I have yet to see Shakur deal with the reach and the long jab of an elite fighter, like an elite boxer that can think on the move like him, that can make adjustments,” Foster told Sean Zittel. “It’s going to be difficult.”
Foster based that comparison on a harsh critique of Teofimo. While acknowledging Lopez’s physical gifts, Foster slammed his ring generalship.
“He’s athletic. He uses that to his advantage, but his IQ is terrible,” Foster said.
That contrast forms the core of Foster’s argument. Wild bursts of athletic speed present entirely different problems than a disciplined jab fired from the outside by a composed boxer.
If Haney controls distance with that jab, Shakur risks falling behind on the scorecards while waiting for openings that never arrive. To win rounds, Stevenson would have to close the space, disrupt the timing, and initiate contact instead of waiting on mistakes.
Applying pressure brings real danger. Stevenson would need to slip through Haney’s reach without overextending or aimlessly following him across the canvas. Foster also noted that Haney might sit down on his punches if he respects Stevenson’s power less over time.
Foster also waved off old sparring clips as irrelevant ancient history.
Ultimately, Foster envisions a tactical duel where Stevenson must prove he can adapt to an opponent who matches his boxing brain from distance. For Foster, beating Lopez left those questions unanswered.
