Not Gervonta: Shakur's Next Possible Opponent Revealed

British promoter Eddie Hearn has revealed that he had a serious conversation with his client, Joe Cordina (17-1, 9 KOs), regarding a potential showdown with WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson (22-0, 10 KOs).

"I spoke to Joe about fighting Shakur. He’s not against it, but at the same time, he understands the challenge ahead.

When moving up in weight, you’d probably prefer an easier fight than against Shakur Stevenson, but Joe is at an age where he wants to be in the biggest fights.

If he feels the opportunity is right, I’m sure he’ll take it. But for now, we’re not close to anything concrete. Just discussions," Hearn stated.

In the undercard of the Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury fight, Cordina lost to Anthony Cacace (22-1, 8 KOs) and relinquished his IBO super featherweight title (up to 58.96 kg).

Previously, there was talk of Shakur facing either Gervonta Davis or William Zepeda. Zepeda’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, has criticized Stevenson.

"Great style. Excellent technique. He has a good punch. And he’s got a chin.

But he needs the confidence to fight. He has to believe in himself to put on a good show and sell tickets. That’s his problem. He doesn’t sell seats.

He’s a great fighter. He demands all this money, but the fights aren’t happening," De La Hoya said.