Shakur Defends “Baby” Remark As Mason Backlash Erupts Online

Shakur Stevenson defended his earlier remarks about Abdullah Mason today on social media, saying he wasn’t “hating” on him by labeling him as a “baby’ that shouldn’t be rushed after he captured the vacant WBO lightweight title by beating Sam Noakes last Saturday night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

(Credit: Queensberry/Leigh Dawney)

There was a massive backlash by users on X in reaction to WBC lightweight champion Stevenson seemingly belittling Abdullah Mason (20-0, 17 KOs) after a career-best 12-round unanimous decision win over Noakes (17-1, 15 KOs) at the Ring IV event at the ANB Arena. The scores were 115-113, 117-111, and 115-113.

Damage Control Begins

He a baby tho don’t rush em lol.. Respect the grit tho!!

— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) November 23, 2025

It ain’t hating I think he’s the truth and a hellavu young fighter I seen it when he was 17 b4 yall even knew who he was, I just think the media and the fans Rushing him and he’s only 21.. But ion got hate in my heart for nobody congrats to him becoming youngest world champ🫡 https://t.co/bGIZhabsYG

— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) November 23, 2025

Why Abdullah Upstaged Everyone

Fans saw the comments from Shakur as pure jealousy, as the 21-year-old Abdullah Mason has received more praise on social media since last night than any of the other big names on the card. He upstaged David Benavidez in the main event and Devin Haney in the co-feature.

For Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs), who hasn’t received many compliments from fans since moving up to the 135-lb division, his “baby” label of Mason looks like a classic example of a fighter who is envious of the love that Abdullah is receiving today.

In contrast, Shakur has been criticized by fans on social media nonstop since moving up to lightweight for his boring performances.

Running vs. Fighting

As a runner, Stevenson has had to become popular through social media. He’s in the Ryan Garcia category by becoming popular outside of the ring as a personality, but is unable to do it inside the ring. Shakur’s promoters have babied him, matching him against weak opposition and many older fighters past their prime.

Shakur’s lack of power and tendency to avoid contact mean he’s likely going to have to keep using social media to maintain his popularity, because he’ll never be as exciting to watch as Abdullah Mason.