Jose ‘Rayo’ Valenzuela has issued a public challenge to fellow Zuffa Boxing fighter Shakur Stevenson, calling for a bout against the former three-division world champion. Following his most recent victory, Valenzuela took to social media to directly address Stevenson with a clear message of intent.
He stated: “Let’s make this fight happen. I have everything it takes to shock the world! @shakurstevenson”. This callout presents Zuffa with a potential internal matchup for one of its most prominent signings, though Stevenson has given no indication he is interested in the fight.
The proposed contest would feature a distinct clash of styles. Valenzuela is known as a pressure fighter who relies on aggression and power to overwhelm opponents. In contrast, Stevenson is widely regarded as one of boxing’s premier defensive specialists, utilising elite counterpunching and ring control. This dynamic of an aggressive power-puncher against a highly technical boxer is what Valenzuela believes makes the fight compelling.
However, Stevenson has set his sights on more established names. He has publicly dismissed the idea of facing Valenzuela, instead expressing his desire for marquee fights against Devin Haney and Gervonta Davis. Stevenson views his deal with Zuffa as a partnership that should not limit him to only facing fighters signed to the promotion.
Still, Valenzuela’s challenge provides Zuffa with a valuable option. The promotion’s current roster at 135 and 140 pounds is not deep, making it difficult to secure high-level opponents for Stevenson without co-promoting. If negotiations for fights with Haney or Davis do not come to fruition, an aggressive and confident opponent like Valenzuela could serve as a viable alternative for the organisation.
