Roach calls Stevenson clash 'best fight' at any weight

Lamont Roach says a meeting with Shakur Stevenson would deliver the lightweight division's top matchup, even if the bout moves to a different weight class. The former featherweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">super-featherweight titleholder wants the fight regardless of where it lands.

“I still think it's the best matchup at 135 for sure, especially coming off of the Tank fight. I think that me and him could have settled it for supremacy at 135, but whatever weight it takes place at, it's going to be the best fight.”

— Lamont Roach, via Ring Magazine

What Lamont Roach said

Roach has pushed for Stevenson since both men campaigned at 130 pounds. Stevenson now competes at lightweight after winning a version of the world title there last year. Roach has also moved up and is targeting the biggest names in the division. The two have traded words on social media for months.

What it moves

Roach's public call puts pressure on Stevenson to engage. Stevenson has hinted at a move to lightweight/" class="internal-link text-bone underline decoration-ash/30 hover:decoration-gold underline-offset-2">super-lightweight if the right opponent emerges. Whether the fight happens at 135 or higher depends on purse splits and broadcast alignment. Neither man holds all the leverage yet.

Source: ringmagazine.com. Full Lamont Roach fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.