On Saturday, WBC lightweight world champion Shakur Stevenson will defend his belt against Artem Harutyunyan in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey.
The bout is the main event of a Top Rank on ESPN card at the Prudential Center.
Fighter Backgrounds
Shakur Stevenson
- Record: 21-0 (10 KOs)
- Age: 27
- Titles Held: Featherweight, Junior Lightweight, Lightweight
- Olympic Medal: Silver (2016)
Shakur Stevenson is a formidable force in boxing, having secured titles in three different weight classes.
He clinched the vacant WBC lightweight title in November with a decision victory over Edwin De Los Santos.
Currently ranked No. 4 in the 145-pound category by The Ring, Stevenson’s contract with Top Rank expires after this fight, making this bout crucial for his career trajectory.
Artem Harutyunyan
- Record: 12-1 (7 KOs)
- Age: 33
- Olympic Medal: Bronze (2016)
Artem Harutyunyan, ranked No. 7 by the WBC, is looking to bounce back from his first career loss, a unanimous decision defeat to Frank Martin in July 2023.
The German boxer will be stepping into his second major bout with hopes of upsetting the hometown favorite.
Betting Odds and Breakdown
Method of Victory
| Method | Odds |
| Shakur Stevenson by KO, TKO, or DQ | -165 |
| Shakur Stevenson by Decision or Technical Decision | +110 |
| Artem Harutyunyan by KO, TKO, or DQ | +2200 |
| Draw or Technical Draw | +2800 |
| Artem Harutyunyan by Decision or Technical Decision | +4000 |
Shakur Stevenson (+1200) Betting Analysis
Stevenson, a former two-division champion and an Olympic silver medalist, is recognized for his technical prowess. The 27-year-old showcases exceptional footwork, offensive and countering skills, and the ability to exploit his opponents' mistakes.
Despite his talent, Stevenson’s last fight against De Los Santos raised questions about his activity level, with neither boxer landing double-digit blows in any round.
This fight is pivotal for Stevenson, especially with his contract expiring and high-profile lightweights like Gervonta Davis, Vasiliy Lomachenko, and William Zepeda ahead of him. A convincing win could secure him a lucrative new deal and future marquee matchups.
Artem Harutyunyan (-3300) Betting Analysis
Harutyunyan, who has held "International" belts for the WBC and IBO, aims to make a mark with this bout. Despite his loss to Martin, Harutyunyan showed resilience and activity, landing 117 of 442 punches and 91 power punches.
To compete with Stevenson, Harutyunyan must replicate his aggressive strategy from the Martin fight, applying pressure and maintaining high punch volume. His ability to inflict body damage and score with counters will be crucial.
Best Bets for Stevenson vs. Harutyunyan
Stevenson’s superior boxing skills and the high stakes suggest he will deliver a stronger performance than his previous fight. The best bet is for Stevenson to win via decision, although the close nature of Harutyunyan’s bout with Martin offers value in considering an upset or a draw.
Event Details
- What: WBC Lightweight Title Fight
- Who: Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan
- Date: Saturday, July 6, 2024
- Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
- How to Watch: ESPN, ESPN+
- Odds: Boxing at BetOnline
This title fight is set to be an exciting matchup, with Stevenson aiming to solidify his legacy and Harutyunyan seeking a career-defining victory.