Bellew knows all about the big fights himself as a former world champion who went up to heavyweight of his career near the end.
To beat former world heavyweight champion David Haye twice in fact.
Speaking on the X platform a short time ago Bellew said of the weekend’s boxing:
“Enjoyed work last night!! Seeing @JOSHPBK achieve his lifelong dream and goal was something else! First world champion from Sunderland! also the performance from @ShakurStevenson was exceptional! To win in that manner against an elite level fighter like Teo is a sign your watching greatness imo.”
Attention now turns to what might be next for both of the above.
Here are some possible fights and options for both world champions.
Josh Kelly (new IBF super welterweight champ after majority decision over Bakhram Murtazaliev on Jan 31, 2026):
- Jaron “Boots” Ennis: Top target; agreement in principle from promoters (Matchroom/others) for unification/cross-promotion clash.
- Winner of Xander Zayas vs. Abass Baraou (or unified champ): For mandatory unification at 154 lbs.
- Vergil Ortiz Jr.: High-profile power matchup mentioned as big-money option.
- Tim Tszyu or Chris Eubank Jr.: Domestic/British rivalries for fan appeal; potential home fights (e.g., Stadium of Light).
Shakur Stevenson (new WBO/Ring super lightweight champ after UD over Teofimo Lopez on Jan 31, 2026):
- Conor Benn: Immediate call-out post-fight with face-off; wants it next (possibly April), but demands rehydration clause (Benn receptive but weight/conditions disputed).
- Dalton Smith or other 140-lb champs (e.g., Richardson Hitchins, Gary Antuanne Russell): For unification at super lightweight.
- Return to 135 lbs vs. top contenders (e.g., Raymond Muratalla, Andy Cruz): If no big 140 fight; for legacy/money.
- Devin Haney or Ryan Garcia: Long-term elite/P4P matchups at higher weights.
Many fights out there for both. Clearly.
For us Stevenson moved up the pound for pound rankings to here after the weekend.
