To step into the ring and engage in a physical battle, a boxer must dissociate themselves from their opponent. They must view them as a mere obstacle to overcome, a target to defeat in pursuit of their career. Alternatively, if emotions do come into play, it is more beneficial for a boxer to harbor animosity towards their opponent and channel that negativity into motivation.
However, developing affection towards their rival is strongly discouraged. This sentiment can hinder their ability to act decisively during the fight and may leave them vulnerable to attacks due to hesitation or compassion.
For this reason, friends seldom engage in physical altercations, unless substantial financial incentives are involved. The risk of causing harm to someone they care about or struggling to confront them prevents them from entering such contests.
Unlike casual sports like tennis or darts, boxing encourages and rewards inflicting damage, eliminating the possibility of friendly competition. It is a sport that demands seriousness and readiness to engage in combat, acknowledging the potential risks and consequences.
Thus, lightweight boxers Shakur Stevenson and Keyshawn Davis, despite sharing a weight class and competing on the same date in Newark, New Jersey, have no intention of facing each other in the ring. Their friendship takes precedence over personal ambitions, with Davis expressing their familial bond and mutual respect.
Shakur Stevenson (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Having shared a close bond since their amateur days and both achieving Olympic silver medals, Stevenson and Davis maintain their friendship as professional boxers.
As Davis prepares to face Miguel Madueno in a 10-round bout to improve his record to 11-0, Stevenson will defend his WBC lightweight title against Artem Harutyunyan in the main event. Davis supports his friend in this endeavor rather than viewing him as a future opponent.
If Davis aims to claim a world title at 135 pounds, there are alternatives beyond Stevenson. Fighters like Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Vasiliy Lomachenko, who hold lightweight titles, present formidable challenges for Davis to pursue. Despite the tough competition, Davis, known as “The Businessman,” remains eager for any world title opportunity that comes his way.
“I’ve never been a world champion in the professional ranks before, so I am ready to take on any challenge,” affirmed the determined 25-year-old.