Shakur Stevenson was born on June 28, 1997, in Newark, New Jersey. He began his boxing journey at a very young age, starting training at the age of 5 under the guidance of his grandfather Wali. Growing up in a tough neighborhood, boxing provided Stevenson with discipline, focus, and an outlet for his energy.
Stevenson quickly made a name for himself in the boxing world, earning a gold medal at the 2014 Youth Olympic Games for Team USA as a flyweight. He continued his winning streak by earning another gold medal at the 2014 AIBA Youth World Boxing Championships in the flyweight division. Stevenson was praised for his speed, precision, and technical skills in the ring, setting the stage for a promising professional career.
In February 2017, Stevenson decided to turn professional after an impressive showing at the 2016 Summer Olympics, where he won a silver medal for the US in the bantamweight division. His professional debut took place in May 2017 at Madison Square Garden, where he fought with determination and skill, solidifying his position as a rising star in the featherweight division.
Stevenson's personal life also made headlines when he began a relationship with rapper Young Lyric. In October 2021, the couple announced that they were expecting a daughter together. In December 2021, they welcomed their daughter Lei into the world. The couple got engaged in May 2022, marking a new chapter in their relationship.
Throughout his career, Stevenson has cited his first professional manager and boxing star Andre Ward as his biggest influence. Ward's guidance and mentorship have played a significant role in shaping Stevenson's approach to the sport and his professional development. With Ward's support, Stevenson continues to hone his skills and push himself to new heights in the boxing world.
As Shakur Stevenson's career continues to unfold, he is already leaving a lasting legacy in the world of boxing. His dedication, talent, and ability to overcome challenges have earned him a place among the greats in the sport. With each new fight and victory, Stevenson solidifies his position as a fighter to watch, inspiring a new generation of boxers to follow in his footsteps.