Shakur Stevenson Leaves Zuffa and Plans Own Promotion

Shakur Stevenson says Zuffa Boxing granted his request to leave the promotion, making him a free agent after three months without a fight. He announced the departure in a video posted October 19, and said he plans to start his own promotional company while pursuing bouts at 135 or 140 pounds. Stevenson signed with Zuffa in July. He said his release was granted over the weekend, but neither account provides an independent release document or details of any terms. Both reports say he did not fight for the promotion during his three-month association. In the video, Stevenson said he spent about eight weeks in training camp preparing for fights that did not happen. He said he was not blaming anyone for the outcome. His last reported fight was a January 31 victory over Teofimo Lopez, which earned him the WBO and Ring light welterweight titles. Stevenson said he intends to take greater control of his career by launching a promotional company. He also said he is willing to work with other promoters and television networks, rather than limiting himself to a single arrangement. No next opponent, bout date or promotional partnership was announced. Negotiations for a possible fight with...