Event: The Last Crescendo: Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2
Date: Saturday, Feb 22, 2025
Location: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Weight Class: Lightweight (12 rounds)
Broadcaster: DAZN
Stakes: WBC World Lightweight Championship
In a clash of unbeaten American talents, Shakur Stevenson (22-0, 10 KOs) and Floyd Schofield (18-0, 12 KOs) will battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight title on the undercard of The Last Crescendo: Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2. With both fighters entering their primes and boasting flawless records, this high-stakes showdown promises tactical fireworks and a potential changing of the guard at 135 pounds.
Fighter Profiles
Shakur Stevenson (USA | Age 27 | Southpaw)
Strengths:
- Elite defensive reflexes and footwork
- Precision counterpunching and ring IQ
- Proven stamina in championship rounds (5 consecutive 12-round decisions)
Weaknesses:
- Lower KO ratio (45%) in recent fights
- Occasionally criticized for overly cautious approach
Recent Form:
✅ UD 12 | ✅ UD 12 | ✅ TKO 6 | ✅ UD 12 | ✅ UD 12
Style Summary: A slick southpaw technician who controls distance masterfully and wears opponents down with accumulative accuracy.
Floyd Schofield (USA | Age 22 | Orthodox)
Strengths:
- Devastating power in both hands (67% KO rate)
- Aggressive body punching and combination work
- Youthful athleticism and adaptability
Weaknesses:
- Defense occasionally compromised in exchanges
- Untested beyond 12 rounds
Recent Form:
✅ UD 12 | ✅ DQ 5 | ✅ TKO 1 | ✅ UD 10 | ✅ UD 10
Style Summary: A dynamic pressure fighter with fight-ending power, willing to take risks to land punishing shots to head and body.
Fight Breakdown
Key Matchup Dynamics
- Experience vs. Power: Stevenson’s championship-round pedigree contrasts sharply with Schofield’s early-round explosiveness.
- Reach Factor: Stevenson’s 173cm reach (vs. Schofield’s 170cm) could amplify his jab-centric gameplan.
- Stance Chess Match: Southpaw vs. Orthodox clashes often create angular exchanges – Stevenson’s lateral movement may neutralize Schofield’s forward charges.
Critical Advantages
- Stevenson’s Path to Victory: Use footwork to stay at mid-range, pile up points with lead right hands, and force Schofield to overcommit.
- Schofield’s Path to Victory: Cut off the ring, invest in body shots early, and test Stevenson’s chin with overhand rights.
Storylines to Watch
- Youth Movement: At 22, Schofield aims to dethrone the established Stevenson as lightweight’s premier prospect.
- Legacy Builder: A win for Stevenson would mark his third divisional world title, cementing his pound-for-pound credentials.
Prediction
Outcome: Stevenson via Unanimous Decision
Reasoning: While Schofield’s power presents real danger, Stevenson’s defensive mastery and experience in high-profile fights should allow him to outbox the younger challenger over 12 rounds. Expect a tactical battle with Stevenson landing cleaner shots and evading Schofield’s bombs through superior positioning.
Conclusion
Two generations of American boxing excellence collide in Riyadh with the WBC crown hanging in the balance. Will Stevenson’s technical brilliance prevail, or will Schofield’s explosive power rewrite the lightweight hierarchy? With both fighters putting their “0” on the line, this co-main event guarantees high drama and a potential Fight of the Year contender. Tune in to DAPN on February 22 for a night where legacies are forged.
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