JRE MMA Show #175 with Shakur Stevenson - The Joe Rogan Experience Recap

Podcast: The Joe Rogan Experience

Published: 2026-03-06

Duration: 2 hr 18 min

Summary

Shakur Stevenson discusses his boxing journey, emphasizing the importance of tactical fighting and discipline in achieving success. He reflects on his recent victory over Tia Fimo Lopez and the significance of being a smart fighter in the ring.

What Happened

In this episode, Joe Rogan welcomes Shakur Stevenson, who shares insights about his standout performance against Tia Fimo Lopez, describing it as a 'giant wake-up call for the entirety of boxing.' Stevenson attributes his success to a combination of hard work, dedication, and 'God-given ability.' He explains that despite starting boxing at a young age, what sets him apart is his instinctual understanding of the sport, which he likens to an 'out-of-body experience' during fights.

The conversation delves into the tactical nature of boxing, with Stevenson highlighting his ability to set traps and avoid damage. He recalls a recent fight against William Zapeda, where he felt the need to stand and trade punches to gain respect from his opponent and the judges. Stevenson emphasizes the importance of defense and the long-term health of fighters, expressing his desire to avoid unnecessary punishment, stating, 'taking punishment ain't for me.' He acknowledges the trend of fighters prioritizing entertainment over skill, asserting that his approach showcases the true essence of boxing.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What made Shakur Stevenson's fight against Tia Fimo Lopez so significant?

Stevenson's victory over Tia Fimo Lopez was monumental as it demonstrated his elite skill level and served as a wake-up call for the boxing community. Rogan highlights how Stevenson made Lopez, a recognized world champion, look out of place in the ring, emphasizing Stevenson's tactical superiority. Stevenson himself credits his hard work and instincts, noting that during the fight, his brain seemed to instinctively know how to win.

How does Shakur Stevenson view modern boxing and fighter safety?

Stevenson expresses concern about the current trend in boxing where fighters often take excessive punishment. He references the consequences seen in older boxers who are unable to communicate effectively due to the damage they've sustained in their careers. For him, it's crucial to maintain a focus on defense and strategy, ensuring that fighters prioritize their long-term health over immediate entertainment.

What was Stevenson's approach in the fight against William Zapeda?

In his fight against William Zapeda, Stevenson strategically chose to stand and trade punches to gain respect, understanding that moving around the ring could make the fight harder due to judges' tendencies to favor more aggressive fighters. He felt it was essential to establish dominance early, ensuring that the judges recognized who was winning, which ultimately shaped the fight's outcome.

How does Shakur Stevenson perceive his own boxing abilities?

Stevenson confidently claims that he is the best fighter in boxing, attributing his success not only to his talent but also to his discipline and hard work. He believes he possesses the ability to adapt to any opponent's style, whether that means outboxing them or standing and trading punches. This versatility is crucial in maintaining his dominance across weight classes.

What role does early training play in a boxer's success according to Stevenson?

Stevenson emphasizes the impact of starting boxing at a young age, stating that it ingrains skills and instincts that are vital in the ring. He started boxing at five years old, which has contributed to his reflexes and understanding of the sport. Stevenson believes that early exposure to boxing can create a solid foundation that benefits fighters throughout their careers.