Pacquiao-Stevenson Bid Risks Overshadowing Joshua-Fury
A proposed Netflix pairing of the aging legend with a young champion invites criticism and may weaken the heavyweight main event.
Key points
- Netflix reportedly wants Pacquiao vs. Stevenson as a co-feature for December 11, though nothing is signed.
- Critics argue the mismatch wastes Stevenson's prime and invites criticism of Pacquiao's age.
- Keyshawn Davis vs. Richardson Hitchins is suggested as a more meaningful prime-vs-prime fight.
Netflix reportedly seeks a Manny Pacquiao versus Shakur Stevenson bout for December 11. This pairing would serve as a co-feature to the Anthony Joshua-Tyson Fury heavyweight clash. The plan remains unsigned, with financial terms still under discussion.
Pacquiao turns 47 on the proposed date. He has not won a fight since defeating Keith Thurman in 2019. Critics argue that pitting him against a 29-year-old at his peak invites immediate criticism before the card even begins.
Stevenson Faces A No-Win Scenario
Shakur Stevenson faces a difficult choice. Dominating the veteran earns him credit for beating an aging legend. However, fighting cautiously for twelve rounds may draw blame from viewers who expect action.
A victory over Pacquiao now reveals little about Stevenson’s ability against top contenders near his age. His style controls distance, punishing fighters who reach for him. This contrasts sharply with Pacquiao’s speed and angle-finding attacks.
Weight And Style Create Friction
The weight class mismatch complicates the matchup. Stevenson beat Teofimo Lopez at 140 pounds in January. Pacquiao’s most recent fight was at welterweight. Negotiators must find terms that suit both men physically.
Asking a 47-year-old to chase a fast, defensive opponent for twelve rounds is a different proposition. Pacquiao can still produce sharp bursts, as seen against Mario Barrios. But sustaining that pace against a prime technician is a significant physical challenge.
Critics Favor A Stronger Co-Feature
Many observers view the pairing as a cynical mismatch. They argue it packages a famous name to create safe paydays while avoiding live threats. This approach treats the ring as a novelty act rather than elite competition.
Keyshawn Davis against Richardson Hitchins offers a better alternative. Both fighters are in their prime and risk their standing. According to boxing247.com, this bout would matter more to boxing today than a victory over a faded legend.
