Shakur Stevenson Finalizing Zuffa Boxing Deal

Shakur Stevenson, the undefeated WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight champion, is finalizing a promotional deal with Zuffa Boxing, according to Sports Illustrated reporter Chris Mannix. The agreement would bring one of boxing's top pound-for-pound fighters to the upstart promotion led by UFC president Dana White.

Stevenson, who improved to 25-0 with 11 knockouts by dominating Teofimo Lopez via unanimous decision on January 31 at Madison Square Garden, has been a free agent since parting ways with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing last year. His victory over Lopez extended his reign in the 140-pound division and drew immediate interest from potential opponents, including Conor Benn, who entered the ring post-fight to address Stevenson's challenge.

Zuffa Boxing, launched earlier this year with backing from Saudi interests and oversight from White and WWE president Nick Khan, has quickly assembled a notable roster. It began with cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, signed away from Matchroom in January, followed by welterweight contender Conor Benn on a reported $15 million one-fight deal that led to a 2.5-year extension after his decision win over Regis Prograis in April. Recent...