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Stevenson Today
By the People, for the People
Boxing Champ Stevenson Challenges UFC's Topuria to Fight
Stevenson invites Topuria to step into the boxing ring for a crossover bout.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Shakur Stevenson, the reigning WBO Super Lightweight champion, has challenged UFC Lightweight champion Ilia Topuria to a boxing match. During a live stream, Stevenson and fellow boxer Terence Crawford discussed the differences between MMA and boxing, with Stevenson asserting that the skill level in boxing is superior. When the UFC was defended, Stevenson bluntly told the streamer to have Topuria come fight him in the boxing ring.
Why it matters
Crossover fights between boxing and MMA have generated significant interest and attention in recent years, though the boxers have typically dominated in those matchups. Stevenson's challenge to Topuria, one of the best boxers in MMA today, could be the next big crossover fight if it materializes.
The details
Stevenson, the Ring Magazine and WBO World Super Lightweight champion, recently moved up from the 135-pound lightweight division to 138 pounds. Topuria, the UFC Lightweight champion, competes at 155 pounds and has even discussed moving up to 170 pounds. The significant weight difference would be a key factor in a potential boxing match between the two champions.
- Stevenson issued the challenge to Topuria during a live stream on February 10, 2026.
The players
Shakur Stevenson
A professional boxer and the reigning WBO Super Lightweight champion, known for his exceptional boxing skills.
Ilia Topuria
The current UFC Lightweight champion, considered one of the best boxers in MMA today.
Terence Crawford
A professional boxer and close friend of Shakur Stevenson, who joined the live stream discussion.
Aiden Ross
A popular streamer who was hosting the live stream and defending the UFC's profile against the boxers' assertions.
What they’re saying
“UFC will never be better than boxing. At all – it ain't even close. The skill level is different.”
— Shakur Stevenson (MMA Junkie)
“If I can't whoop you with my hands, I can kick you, I can take you down. It's a whole different mental capacity than just kicking, punching.”
— Terence Crawford (MMA Junkie)
“Tell him come fight me.”
— Shakur Stevenson (MMA Junkie)
The takeaway
This challenge from boxing champion Shakur Stevenson to UFC champion Ilia Topuria could be the next big crossover fight, continuing the trend of boxing stars taking on MMA fighters in the ring. The significant weight difference between the two would be a key factor, but the matchup would pit two of the best strikers in their respective sports against each other.
