"I've been professional my whole career and made weight, but my body just can't make 130[lbs] anymore," Shakur Stevenson issues social media statement after failing to make limit for world title defence against Robson Conceicao
Friday 23 September 2022 10:43, UK
Shakur Stevenson has lost his WBC and WBO titles after announcing that his "body can't make" the super-featherweight limit for this weekend's fight with Robson Conceicao.
The American star was due to defend his belts against Conceicao in the early hours of Saturday morning, live on Sky Sports, but he weighed in at 131.6lbs while the Brazilian challenger was inside the 130lbs limit at 129.6lbs.
Stevenson released a statement on social media, suggesting he would not attempt to lose more weight, meaning that only Conceicao can claim the WBC and WBO belts in this weekend's bout at Prudential Center, Newark.
He said: "I gave it my all. I've been professional my whole career and made weight, but my body just can't make 130[lbs] anymore.
"My health has to come first. I'm moving up to 135[lbs] in my next fight."
Top Rank confirmed late on Thursday evening that Stevenson had officially been stripped of his belts after failing to weigh in under the limit, while stating that should he win the titles will become vacant.
Stevenson is one of the most exciting talents in the sport, having become a world champion in two divisions during an unbeaten 18-fight career.
But the 25-year-old has now indicated he will pursue more titles at a higher weight class following the fight against Conceicao.
Watch Shakur Stevenson vs Robson Conceicao, live on Sky Sports, from 1am on Saturday morning.
