Full Breakdown
O'Shaquie Foster Retains WBC Junior Lightweight Title Amid Post-Fight Confrontation with Shakur Stevenson
6/1/2026, 4:16:27 AM
Fight Overview and Outcome
On May 31, 2024, at the Fertitta Center on the University of Houston campus, WBC junior-lightweight champion O’Shaquie Foster defended his belt against challenger Raymond Ford. After a competitive early exchange, Foster seized control in the second half, winning by majority decision with judges’ scores of 118-110, 116-112 and 114-114. The champion landed 106 punches to Ford’s 99, and his right hand in round 11 broke Ford’s nose.
Background and Rivalries
Foster entered the bout after a controversial loss to Robson Conceição earlier in 2024, seeking his third straight victory. Ford, an aggressive fighter, trains with Shakur Stevenson, the WBO and The Ring super-lightweight champion, adding a personal dimension to the contest.
Key Figures
- O’Shaquie Foster – American, 25-3 (12 KOs), WBC junior-lightweight champion.
- Raymond Ford – American, 18-2-1 (8 KOs), top contender and training partner of Stevenson.
- Shakur Stevenson – American, WBO and The Ring super-lightweight champion, Ring Magazine #3 pound-for-pound.
- Emanuel Navarrete – IBF and WBO super-featherweight champion, mentioned as a possible unification opponent.
Timeline of Events
- May 31, 2024 – Foster vs. Ford fight; Foster retains title by majority decision.
- Immediately after the bout – Stevenson, seated ringside for Ford, entered the ring and exchanged verbal barbs with Foster.
- Post-fight interview (DAZN) – Foster outlined his desire to fight Stevenson next and his willingness to adjust weight.
Data & Statistics
- Judges’ scores: 118-110, 116-112, 114-114.
- Punch count: Foster 106 vs. Ford 99.
- Records: Foster 25-3 (12 KOs); Ford 18-2-1 (8 KOs).
- Notable moment: Foster tossed Ford out of the ring in round 1; the champion landed a decisive right hand in round 11.
Official Statements & Responses
Foster publicly declared his intent to pursue a bout with Stevenson, stating he would move up to 140 lb or stay at 135 lb to make the fight happen, while also keeping a unification with Navarrete on the table. Stevenson responded by affirming his readiness to meet Foster at either weight class, emphasizing his confidence in defeating the champion. Both fighters framed the exchange as a legitimate challenge rather than a personal dispute.
Criticism & Opposition
Stevenson’s remarks during the confrontation were sharply critical, labeling Foster a “bum” and promising to “beat his little a**.” The exchange was described by multiple outlets as a “heated” and “unsportsmanlike” verbal clash, highlighting the tension between the two camps.
Why It Matters
A Foster-Stevenson showdown would pit two of boxing’s top pound-for-pound talents against each other, potentially unifying titles at 130 lb or creating a high-profile bout at 140 lb. The rivalry also involves Navarrete, offering a pathway to a three-belt unification that could reshape the junior-lightweight division and generate significant commercial interest.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact weight class for a prospective Foster-Stevenson fight: Foster suggested 135 lb or a move to 140 lb, while Stevenson indicated willingness to meet at either weight, stating “I’ll go to 140, or whatever he wants to do.” No definitive agreement has been announced, leaving the final weight class unresolved.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm one of the smartest people in this ring, man,” — O’Shaquie Foster, post-fight interview.
- “Skill for skill, I'm the best,” — O’Shaquie Foster, DAZN interview.
- “beat his little a**,” — Shakur Stevenson, ringside confrontation.
- “I made you quit.” — Shakur Stevenson, ringside confrontation.
- “If he wants to meet at 135 — whatever he wants to do.” — Shakur Stevenson, post-fight remarks.
- “If I can't get Shakur next, hopefully me and Navarrete can do it.” — O’Shaquie Foster, DAZN interview.
