Boxing's Elite Club: Will Shakur Stevenson Join the Four-Division Titleholder Ranks?
This Saturday, the boxing world will witness a potential historic moment as Shakur Stevenson aims to join an exclusive club of four-division titleholders. But will he succeed? The question sparks curiosity and controversy among fans and experts alike.
The Rare Air of Four-Division Champions
Becoming a four-division titleholder is no small feat. It's a rare achievement that almost guarantees a spot in the Hall of Fame. This Saturday, Stevenson takes on Teofimo Lopez for the WBO junior welterweight title and lineal 140lbs championship, aiming to etch his name among the greats.
The Hall of Fame Elite
Let's delve into the recent history of men's boxing and explore the fighters who have achieved this remarkable feat in the last decade, making a title defense within that period. Secondary titles are not part of this elite club.
The Legends:
Manny Pacquiao: The iconic Pacquiao became a four-division champion in 2008, beating Juan Manuel Marquez. He went on to become an eight-division titleholder, with his last title win in 2019. At 46, he nearly added another belt, showcasing his enduring greatness.
Terence Crawford: Crawford held titles in five divisions and became a four-division champion in 2024. He's a three-division undisputed champion, defeating Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez last year. Crawford's resume rivals the legendary Henry Armstrong.
Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez: Alvarez is a phenomenon. Despite the sport's politics, he challenged himself and won belts from junior middleweight to light heavyweight. His 2019-2021 run was exceptional, becoming an undisputed super middleweight champion.
Naoya Inoue: Inoue has dominated across weight classes. He's a four-division titleholder and undisputed in two divisions. Inoue's power and timing have revolutionized the perception of lower-weight fighters.
The Hall of Fame Contenders:
Nonito Donaire: Donaire's left hook has paved his way to the Hall of Fame. He rose through weight classes, starting in 2009, and revived his career in the World Boxing Super Series. Donaire continues to fight, recently losing a split decision.
Roman Gonzalez: Gonzalez brought junior bantamweight fights to the forefront. His aggressive style made him a fan favorite. Gonzalez is a four-division champion, but will he make it to the Hall of Fame?
Miguel Cotto: Cotto's upset win over Sergio Martinez earned him his fourth world title. He was a key figure in Puerto Rican boxing, following in Felix 'Tito' Trinidad's footsteps.
The Controversial Cases:
Donnie Nietes: A Filipino fighter often overshadowed by Pacquiao, Nietes had it all: longevity, quality wins, and multiple titles. Yet, he lacked fame. Was it his tactical style? Will he be remembered?
Mikey Garcia: Garcia's early career was electric, but he seemed to lose his spark. Still, he's a four-division champion. Did he reach his full potential?
Leo Santa Cruz: Santa Cruz's talent is undeniable, but his resume is sparse outside of key fights. He's a four-division champion, but is that enough?
The 50-50 Club:
Kosei Tanaka: The forgotten champion, Tanaka won belts across four divisions but lacked marquee wins. He's a four-division titleholder, but does he deserve the Hall of Fame?
Kazuto Ioka: Ioka's longevity is impressive, but his definitive wins are debatable. His place among the best is a topic of discussion.
And here's the million-dollar question: Will Stevenson join this elite club? Will he solidify his place in boxing history? The debate is open, and opinions are sure to vary. Who do you think will be the next four-division titleholder? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments!
