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Shakur Stevenson hailed as one of the most intimidating fighters in his weight class, has faced a notable challenge in securing opponents over the past year. Excitement brews among Stevenson’s fans as the super featherweight champion prepares for his return to the boxing stage. He is slated for a Thursday night matchup against Edwin De Los Santos at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Stevenson’s meteoric rise in boxing has seen him secure two world championships. The pinnacle of his achievements came in 2022 when Stevenson triumphed over Oscar Valdez, seizing the WBC 130-pound title and solidifying his status as a dual-world champion. Behind it, Stevenson has had complex family dynamics. There have been quite a few speculations about the champion’s roots and background. Let us take a look at it.

Where is Shakur Stevenson From?

Born on June 28, 1997, in the vibrant city of Newark, New Jersey, Ash-Shakur Stevenson has swiftly become a compelling presence in the realm of professional boxing. However, his upbringing unfolded under the care of his mother, Malikah Stevenson, and stepfather, Shahid Guyton, as Stevenson’s biological father remained absent from his life. Interestingly, Stevenson was named after the rapper, Tupac Shakur, as his mother was a huge admirer of the rapper and considered him a ‘poet’. The complexities of family dynamics, however, shaped Stevenson’s journey.

The eldest among his nine siblings, he traces the roots of his boxing journey back to the age of five. It was during this formative period that his grandfather, Wali Moses, assumed the role of his first boxing coach.

Fueled by an unyielding dedication and an innate hunger for success, Stevenson diligently honed his skills, leaving an indelible mark on the amateur boxing scene with 140 amateur fights and only 13 losses. Born and brought up in Newark, Stevenson’s nationality remains American. He even won Olympic medals for the US in boxing. However, the boxer does have Puerto Rican roots. Fans have been eager to know how the boxer is tied to Puerto Rico.

Is Shakur Stevenson’s Father Puerto Rican?

On September 29, 2019, a significant chapter closed in Shakur Stevenson’s life with the passing of his biological father, Alfredo Rivera. The news came nearly a month before he fought Joet Gonzalez for the vacant WBO featherweight world title. While simultaneously mourning his father’s death and prepping for a match that he later won, Stevenson spoke in detail about his father.

As clarified by Stevenson on multiple occasions, his father was Puerto Rican. Unfortunately for the boxer, he was unable to explore that side of his ancestry owing to the lack of involvement of his father during his formative years.

Rivera had been largely absent during much of Stevenson’s upbringing. Fortunately, a reconnection took place when Stevenson was around 16 years old. However, their relationship was marked by complexities, with a lack of complete integration into each other’s lives. In a candid reflection, Stevenson revealed the dual nature of his sentiments toward his father, acknowledging moments of both connection and avoidance driven by lingering anger. Though the pugilist has never been to Puerto Rico, he has expressed his desire to know more about its heritage and culture.

Which religion does Shakur Stevenson follow?

Shakur Stevenson’s religious affiliation sparks curiosity among many, prompting inquiries about whether he identifies as a Christian, Jewish, or Muslim. Stevenson aligns himself with Islam, considering it a cornerstone of his identity. His faith is not just a label but a profound influence, offering strength and inspiration on his path through the demanding world of boxing. As a devout Muslim athlete, Stevenson’s unwavering religious convictions resonate with fans, earning him widespread respect and admiration.

Stevenson’s journey from Newark, New Jersey, to the pinnacle of professional boxing reflects not only his incredible skill and determination but also the complexities of his personal narrative. As an American with Puerto Rican roots.

Stevenson’s identity is a rich tapestry, woven with familial ties and cultural influences. His father’s passing adds a poignant layer to his story, revealing the nuanced dynamics of their relationship. Stevenson’s commitment to Islam serves as a guiding force, shaping both his character and his formidable presence in the ring. Today, Stevenson values his family the most, prioritizing them over any other aspect of his life.

Watch This Story: Five Intriguing Facts About Shakur Stevenson

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