Vinny's Corner

In a highly anticipated showdown at Madison Square Garden on January 31, 2026, undefeated Shakur Stevenson delivered a masterclass performance to dethrone Teofimo Lopez and capture the WBO and Ring Magazine super lightweight titles.

Stevenson, moving up from lightweight where he held the WBC belt, showcased his elite defensive skills, pinpoint jab, and ring generalship throughout the 12-round bout. He systematically outboxed Lopez, landing clean shots while largely neutralizing the champion’s power and aggression. CompuBox stats highlighted the disparity, with Stevenson outlanding Lopez significantly (reports noted figures around 165-72 in total punches).

The judges’ scorecards reflected the one-sided nature of the fight: all three scored it 119-109 in favor of Stevenson, awarding Lopez just one round. This unanimous decision victory improved Stevenson’s record to 25-0 (11 KOs) and made him a four-division world champion. Only the 25th fighter in boxing history to achieve the feat, by adding junior welterweight gold to his previous titles at featherweight, junior lightweight, and lightweight.

Lopez (now 22-2) struggled to find his rhythm against Stevenson’s elusive style and sharp counterpunching. Despite brief moments of success, including a few left hooks, he was unable to mount any sustained offense or turn the tide. The fight lived up to its billing as a clash of top American talents but turned into a showcase for Stevenson’s technical brilliance rather than the fireworks some expected.

Post-fight, Stevenson emphasized executing his game plan perfectly, calling it “the art of boxing: hit and don’t get hit.” The win solidifies his status among the pound-for-pound elite and opens doors for future high-profile matchups in the 140-pound division.

The event, headlined as part of “The Ring VI,” drew a sold-out crowd and marked a defining moment in both fighters’ careers, with Stevenson emerging as the clear victor in this generational showdown.

The question is what is next for Teofimo Lopez? Does he stay put at 140? Is his time up?

By Vincent

Photo Courtesy of Ring Magazine