Lamont Roach Says Shakur Stevenson Fight Would Decide 135 Pounds
Lamont Roach says shakur stevenson would settle the question of who is best at 135 pounds. Roach also called Stevenson the division’s standard-bearer, putting a future matchup at lightweight at the center of his plans.
“I think that’s a fight. I think that’s the best fighter in the division at 135 pounds, and I think that will define who’s the best at 135, which is one of the hottest divisions right now,” Roach said.
Roach Centers 135 Pounds
When asked where the fight would take place, Roach was direct: “I say 35,” he said. He added, “I’m campaigning at 35. So I’ll be at 35 for a long time,” making clear that lightweight remains his priority even as he leaves room for opportunities at 140 pounds.
That stance narrows the path for any Stevenson matchup. Roach said he would take chances at 140 pounds if they come up, but he is not planning to wait around for them.
Stevenson’s Belt Angle
Roach also tied the matchup to Stevenson’s past. He said Stevenson gave up the WBC belt after moving to junior welterweight, and that if Roach becomes champion, Stevenson would probably want to come back for the title he used to hold.
“Once I win the championship, I know he’ll probably want to reclaim it and be champion, the same belt that he had. So, we’ll see,” Roach said. He also said Stevenson’s interest could come down to the money involved: “You never know, man,” followed by, “With talks in this business, money talks. So, we’ll see.”
Roach Keeps Options Open
Roach did not close the door on other high-end fights. He said, “If he can, I would love to get in the ring with him,” when asked about Gervonta Davis. That keeps his lightweight lane crowded, with Stevenson at the front of it and Davis still part of the conversation.
For now, though, Roach has drawn his line at 35. He wants the fight that tells the division who sits at the top, and he wants it at the weight where he says he will stay for a long time.
