Boxing’s first major event of 2026 is officially set, and it’s a big one. Shakur Stevenson will move up to 140 pounds to challenge Teofimo Lopez for his WBO super lightweight title in the main event of The Ring 6 on January 31 in New York. The exact venue is still to be announced, but the stakes are already clear: this matchup could redefine the landscape at 140.
Promoter Turki Alalshikh confirmed the news, framing the bout as a statement opener for the new year. “This fight between two huge talents will provide an exciting start to our plans for 2026,” he said. “We are looking forward to returning to New York in January and producing another big world title fight that fans have been waiting for.”
Lopez enters his fourth defense of the WBO belt following a strong victory over Arnold Barboza Jr., and he’s embracing the spotlight. “Duck, Duck, Goose! Are you ready for New York City?” he said. “The Takeover is here to stay, not play… Shakur will fall in nine.”
Stevenson, the undefeated WBC lightweight champion, is taking yet another bold leap in his career. Fresh off a unanimous decision over William Zepeda, he now attempts to become a four-division world champion. “I have never shied away from a challenge,” Stevenson said. “Teofimo Lopez will learn that firsthand on January 31 when I take his belt. There are levels to this game.”
The event will stream live worldwide on DAZN, with additional ticketing and undercard details to follow.
Fight card:
▪️Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson, 12 rounds, for the WBO World super light title
