Four-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson has had his say on a potential showdown with Japanese sensation Naoya Inoue.
Stevenson made his return to action back in January when he outclassed countryman Teofimo Lopez to capture the WBO world super-lightweight title and become a world champion in a fourth weight class.
Heading into the bout it was seen as a 50-50 affair, but Stevenson ensured it was anything but that, as he dominated the action and proved his worth as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
The 28-year-old from New Jersey is expected to be back in action during the summer, with reports suggesting that he could make the move up to 147lbs in an attempt at becoming a five-weight world champion.
Another man that the American has been linked with over the last couple of years is three-weight undisputed champion Inoue, who is often regarded as being the best active fighter on the planet.
Speaking on social media, Stevenson shared his view on the possibility of him potentially facing the Japanese superstar should the opportunity present itself.
“He too small, It wouldn’t be fair”
He too small, It wouldn’t be fair https://t.co/ngUQtYPW9I
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) April 6, 2026
Inoue began his career competing at light flyweight and there is nearly 20lbs separating him from Stevenson at the moment, so it seems the American could be correct with his assessment.
Rather than worry about that possible clash, Inoue is currently preparing to face long-term rival and fellow countryman Junto Nakatani, an extremely intriguing bout that has been many years in the making.
