Shakur Stevenson’s Zuffa exit has cleared the way for his next bout, with Raymond Muratalla the likely opponent.
Stevenson signed with Zuffa in July. However, Zuffa released the pound-for-pound star last week without him ever fighting for the company.
The Newark man had hoped to land a money-spinning showdown with Devin Haney and reportedly held talks to face eight-division champion, Manny Pacquiao.
Both fights failed to materialise, although UFC CEO White, who fronts Zuffa claims he offered to release him.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Shakur Stevenson explained his release from Zuffa: “I’ve been in camp for like eight weeks preparing for fights that I was told were going to happen.
“It is what it is. It’s the business of boxing. I’m not mad at anyone. I’m not pointing any fingers.
“But, upon all of the issues I requested to be released from Zuffa Boxing. Over the weekend, my request has been granted and I’m officially a free agent.
“I am taking my career in my own hands and starting my own promotional company and I’m willing to work with other promoters and anybody else that’s willing to be as serious about my career as I am.”
Muratalla ordered after Stevenson leaves Zuffa
On Tuesday, just days after Stevenson became a free agent, his next move became clearer. The WBO ordered him to defend his WBO super lightweight world title against Raymond Muratalla
WBO President Gustavo Olivieri said in a post on X: “The WBO World Championships Committee has unanimously resolved to order the commencement of negotiations between WBO Jr. Welterweight World Champion Shakur Stevenson and WBO #1 World-Rated Contender Raymond Muratalla, in fulfillment of the outstanding mandatory championship obligation.
“The parties shall have 20 days to reach terms, pursuant to WBO Regulations.”
Meanwhile, Muratalla’s promoter Bob Arum, who promoted Stevenson for much of his career before his move to Zuffa Boxing, told Boxing Scene he’s confident they will reach a deal without the need for purse bids.
Muratalla vacated his IBF lightweight world title last month. The 29-year-old will now look to become a two-weight world champion when he tackles Stevenson.
Previously, the Californian made two defences of his title. The last of which came in August where he outpointed Robson Conceicao.
It would be the first fight of Shakur Stevenson’s career since his Zuffa exit.
