Trainer Calvin Ford believes a potential fight between Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson carries “no threat” because neither is a major puncher. Ford questions if Stevenson has ever been truly tested, suggesting Haney might take the risk on a pure boxing match.
Ford, the long-time coach for Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, provided his assessment of the highly anticipated but unconfirmed lightweight showdown. When asked to pick a winner in a fight between the two undefeated technicians, Ford was noncommittal. “It’s hard to say,” he stated, before analyzing the matchup from Haney’s perspective. Ford believes the lack of significant punching power from either side makes the bout more of a strategic risk than a physical one. “Devin probably says no threat. It’s no threat. It’s not like you’re going against a puncher. So Devin might take a chance.”
The trainer’s comments frame the potential fight as a chess match, not a war. While acknowledging Stevenson’s high-level ability, Ford pointedly questioned the quality of his professional resume to date. He suggests that despite Stevenson’s pedigree, he has not yet been forced into a difficult fight that reveals his true character under pressure. “Shakur is always better. But again, it’s nobody that he’s been in front of that really put him through that yet.”
Ford remains unconvinced that Stevenson has shown a new level in the professional ranks. “He’s always been Shakur since he was a kid. But again, I haven’t seen anything that make me go, ‘Oh my God.’”
This assessment comes as negotiations for the fight continue, with Haney reportedly agreeing to a 144-pound catchweight to move things forward. However, a significant obstacle remains. The WBO has informed Haney that he must defend his welterweight title against mandatory challenger Keyshawn Davis next. Haney now faces a critical decision: satisfy his mandatory obligation and keep his belt, or pursue the high-profile bout with Stevenson and risk being stripped of his title. The choice will define the immediate future for all three fighters.
