Shakur Stevenson Returning To Newark To Chase Title Shot

NEWARK, NJ — Newark’s boxing hero Shakur Stevenson will take his next step towards a possible world title shot in his hometown.

On Monday, Stevenson – a 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist and the WBO No. 1 featherweight contender – announced he will face fellow unbeaten pugilist Hairon Socarras in a 10-round main event on Saturday, July 13 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

It will mark the first time Stevenson will fight in Newark since turning professional two years ago.

“Newark… I’m coming home!” Stevenson enthused Monday during a press conference at the Newark Hilton Penn Station on Raymond Boulevard.

“I've wanted to fight at Prudential Center since my pro debut, and the time has finally come,” Stevenson said. “I haven’t fought in Newark in over four years, and I promise it will be worth the wait.”

Stevenson said he looks forward to showing his fans what the Brick City is all about.

“Socarras is an undefeated fighter, but he has never been in the ring with anyone like me,” Stevenson said. “This is my first main event, and my hometown fans are going to see the best Shakur Stevenson yet.”

Stevenson, who has become a beloved sports icon in his hometown, was presented with the key to the city after returning home with a silver medal from the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro.

“Making my family and hometown proud has always been the most important thing to me and it's an honor to share my Olympic medal with everyone in Newark,” Stevenson said after his Olympic experience. “I'm just a kid from Newark who chased his dream and proved that no matter where you come from, you can become anything you want to be if you work hard for it.”

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According to Sean Saadeh of the Prudential Center, the event will be more than just an incredible night of boxing.

“We are confident that Shakur’s presence in Newark and return to New Jersey will inspire the next generation of young fighters in the region, mirroring the incredible cycle of rejuvenation we see in the City of Newark every day,” Saadeh said.

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As part of the undercard on July 13, top super welterweight prospect Vikas “The Indian Tank” Krishan (2-0, 1 KO), will see action in a six-rounder against 2008 Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh (10-0, 7 KOs).

Krishan also has a local connection, having trained with Newark-based coach Wali Moses – Stevenson’s grandfather – at Brick City Hitters in East Orange.

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Tickets for the July 13 fight go on sale Tuesday, June 11 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and in person at the Prudential Center box office starting Wednesday, June 12 at 11 a.m.

The Stevenson-Socarras bout will also be televised live on ESPN.

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