Boxing aficionados were gearing up for a thrilling WBC lightweight title fight featuring Shakur Stevenson. However, recent developments have thrown a wrench into the proceedings. Frank Martin, initially slated to face Stevenson in a November 16 ESPN main event in Las Vegas, has backed out. This unexpected twist was first reported by ESPN boxing insider Mike Coppinger and later confirmed by Top Rank officials.
The anticipation for this bout had been building, especially after both camps seemingly reached an agreement just days ago. Stevenson, always enthusiastic about the fight, was looking forward to adding another title to his collection. Martin, on the other hand, seemed just as eager. However, things took a turn when Martin's team, after being presented with a contract, decided to walk away from what would have been Martin's debut title fight.
Stevenson, not one to be deterred, has already set his sights on another opponent: Edwin De Los Santos. The Dominican southpaw has been vocal about his desire to face Stevenson, and it seems the latter is now ready to make it happen. With the WBC title up for grabs after Devin Haney chose to pursue another bout, De Los Santos, currently ranked sixth by the WBC, might just get his wish.
While other potential contenders like Vasiliy Lomachenko and Isaac Cruz have other plans, De Los Santos seems primed for the challenge. His recent victory over Joseph Adorno and his knockout win against Jose Valenzuela last year has showcased his prowess. Meanwhile, Stevenson, a former WBO featherweight titleholder, is keen on proving his mettle once again after his knockout victory over Shuichiro Yoshino.
Image Credit: Premier Boxing Champions