Stevenson Discloses Pre-Fight Contact from Mayweather Amid Lopez Victory, Highlights Strategic Negotiations

In a revealing post-fight disclosure, world champion Shakur Stevenson confirmed receiving direct communication from boxing icon Floyd Mayweather immediately prior to his decisive victory over Teofimo Lopez. The contact underscores the intricate personal and professional networks within elite boxing circles, with Stevenson emphasizing both respect for Mayweather's legacy and assertion of his own distinct identity: 'Floyd is my family; I got a lot of love for Floyd, but I’m the first Shakur Stevenson.' This statement reflects a broader narrative of generational transition in the sport. Analytically, the revelation coincides with confirmation of a negotiated 10-pound rehydration clause agreed upon by both Stevenson and Lopez—a critical strategic element influencing fight-night conditions and competitive dynamics. Such clauses, increasingly prevalent in high-stakes bouts, demonstrate the sophisticated contractual and physiological planning undertaken by top-tier camps. This intelligence highlights how pre-fight psychological engagements, combined with meticulously crafted agreements, shape outcomes in modern championship boxing, illustrating the multifaceted nature of preparation beyond physical training alone.