Stevenson Slams Benn, Calls Him Scared
Shakur Stevenson, the undefeated WBO 140-pound champ, says Conor Benn is intentionally avoiding a clash.
The friction intensified following the events of April 11, where Benn secured a victory over veteran Regis Prograis. Stevenson was unimpressed by the showing, labeling the performance “mediocre.” While both fighters have verbally agreed that 147 pounds (Welterweight) is the target if they boxed, the actual fight-night conditions have become the primary roadblock.
| Feature | Shakur Stevenson | Conor Benn |
| Record | 25-0 (11 KOs) | 25-1 (14 KOs) |
| Last Bout | Win (UD) vs. Teofimo Lopez | Win (UD) vs. Regis Prograis |
| Current Title | WBO Junior Welterweight Champ | WBC #1 Welterweight Contender |
| Stipulation | Demanding 10lb Rehydration Cap | Refusing Rehydration Cap |
Stevenson is demanding a strict 10-pound rehydration limit, identical to the one Benn famously enforced upon Chris Eubank Jr. during their 2025 encounter. Stevenson is fresh off a career-defining win against Teofimo Lopez on January 31. A move to welterweight would see the Newark native attempting to capture the belt in his fifth professional division.
Stevenson wants to ensure he isn’t bullied by a naturally larger man on fight night, while Benn’s camp argues that as the established welterweight, they should not have to compromise their physical health for a fighter moving up from 140.
Stevenson Reacts
Conor Benn finds himself in a high-pressure position. Despite the win, Benn failed to stop a 37-year-old Prograis who appeared to be struggling with a leg injury throughout the bout. Shakur has said that he reached out to Benn, whose camp is reluctant.
“Fights don’t get made on the internet. We reached out to his team, and from what I’m hearing, he’s scared,” Benn said
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