Shakur Stevenson defends WBC lightweight title with stoppage win over Josh Padley

The fairytale is over for Josh Padley after he was stopped in the ninth round by WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson in Riyadh. 

Arriving in the Saudi Arabian capital on a few days' notice, the odds were stacked against Padley, but his courage is something that has to be applauded. 

Right from the opening bell there was a clear gulf in class. While Padley was hesitant to commit, Stevenson was quick to bring his lightening quick jab into the contest against the full-time electrician.

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Stevenson’s speed continued to be a problem for Padley with a sharp left-right combination landing in the second. Frustratingly, Stevenson did not continue to assert his dominance until round five where he finally threw an eye-catching left hand which landed flush on Padley.

Padley tried to answer back with his own combinations in the sixth, but Stevenson could smell blood. The American’s punches were now carrying plenty of spite with a body shot hurting Padley towards the end of the round.

Round nine saw Stevenson drop Padley three times with body shots and in the end the latter's corner had seen enough, throwing in the towel and bringing this world title fight to an early end. 

Shakur Stevenson needs to fight Gervonta Davis to become a major star - Analysis from Christopher Walker in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Stevenson may need a major name if he’s to transform his skills into a bigger profile and someone like Gervonta Davis would certainly fit the bill.

Stevenson has achieved plenty in his career, and he will accomplish more, but the time is now for him to become a major star and that will require much better oppoennts than Josh Padley.

The Yorkshireman may one day become a champion himself after expressing himself in such an incredible manner these last few days and ewhateber rewards come his way are deserved.

Rebuilding back in Britain towards a domestic title crack is one option, but the experience of a show like this will give him the hunger to push for a return to this grand stage in the near future. 

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