Shakur Stevenson vs. Floyd Schofield: Eddie Hearn confirms offer for high-stakes Lightweight clash

The lightweight division continues to dominate headlines as promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed that an official offer has been made for a bout between WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson and rising contender Floyd Schofield. This potential showdown comes after Stevenson’s originally scheduled opponent, William Zepeda, was forced to withdraw due to injury. The fight, if finalized, could take place on February 22 as part of the highly anticipated Riyadh Season card in Saudi Arabia.

William Zepeda’s Injury Leaves Stevenson Without an Opponent

Shakur Stevenson, one of the brightest stars in boxing, had been preparing to face his mandatory challenger, William Zepeda on the Riyadh Season card. However, Zepeda, fresh off a split-decision win over Tevin Farmer, suffered a left forearm injury that ruled him out of the contest. The injury has left Stevenson without an opponent, prompting his team to explore alternative options to keep him on the high-profile event.

The absence of Zepeda was unexpected, especially after his agreement to face Stevenson. “We agreed to fight Zepeda, so did Golden Boy apparently,” Hearn said. “But apparently, he’s injured after a very lackluster performance.”

Floyd Schofield Ready for the Spotlight

With Zepeda out, attention quickly turned to Floyd Schofield, a fast-rising lightweight prospect with an undefeated record of 18-0 (12 KOs). At just 21 years old, Schofield has already established himself as a name to watch, especially after his career-best victory over René Tellez Giron earlier this year.

Schofield didn’t hesitate to express his interest in stepping in for the injured Zepeda. His fiery confidence was further amplified after a social media clash with Stevenson earlier this week, where the two exchanged verbal jabs that caught the attention of boxing fans. This back-and-forth has only increased speculation that Schofield could replace Zepeda on the card, setting the stage for a highly anticipated battle between two undefeated fighters.

Eddie Hearn Confirms Active Negotiations with Golden Boy

Eddie Hearn has officially confirmed that discussions are underway with Schofield’s promoters, Golden Boy Promotions, to finalize the fight. While negotiations remain ongoing, Hearn is optimistic about the matchup.

“We agreed to fight Zepeda, so did Golden Boy apparently,” Hearn explained to BoxingScene. “But apparently, he’s injured after a very lackluster performance. Schofield is a name that’s in the hat. We’ve been talking to Golden Boy, we’ve made them an offer, and we’re trying to tie that up with His Excellency now.”

Hearn highlighted the appeal of this potential clash, describing it as a battle between two undefeated American fighters with significant buzz. Despite logistical challenges from the Thanksgiving holiday, efforts to finalize the fight are moving forward.

What This Fight Means for the Lightweight Division

A showdown between Shakur Stevenson and Floyd Schofield would bring excitement to the highly competitive lightweight division. For Stevenson, it’s a chance to solidify his dominance as WBC lightweight champion. For Schofield, it represents an opportunity to make a bold statement and position himself among the division’s elite.

If confirmed, this fight would add star power to an already stacked Riyadh Season card, drawing attention from boxing fans worldwide. With negotiations progressing, fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on what could be one of the year’s most anticipated matchups.