Jones reacts to Stevenson’s stage, not his opponent depth
Stevenson’s win over Teofimo Lopez is real proof. Lopez was experienced, physically strong, and still dangerous. Stevenson controlled him and removed his offense over twelve rounds. That performance confirmed that Stevenson belongs at the elite level above 130. But that fight also stands largely alone in that category.
Edwin De Los Santos brought power but had never beaten an elite technician. William Zepeda was undefeated and aggressive, but was also entering his first real championship test. Both fights strengthened Stevenson’s position. Neither carried the same established threat level as the elite prime opponents Mayweather faced early in his career.
Jones appears to be reacting to Stevenson’s access to major stages rather than the full depth of elite opponents he has actually defeated.
Mayweather had already faced elite prime threats by year nine
Mayweather’s early career was built on removing elite threats, not positioning. Genaro Hernández had never been beaten at 130 when Mayweather stopped him to win his first world title. Diego Corrales entered undefeated at 33-0 and was viewed as one of boxing’s most dangerous punchers. Mayweather dropped him five times and forced a stoppage that removed him from contention overnight.
Jose Luis Castillo provided a different kind of test. He was strong, aggressive, and in his absolute prime. Mayweather fought through injury to win the first fight and returned to settle the result clearly in the rematch.
By the time Mayweather faced Arturo Gatti in 2005, he had already built a record of solving elite prime opponents across multiple styles. The Gatti fight elevated his financial position, but the competitive proof was already established.
Platform access accelerated Stevenson’s rise
Stevenson’s rise has happened faster in public view. ESPN moved him quickly. Riyadh Season placed him on the sport’s biggest stages. He received championship opportunities soon after entering new divisions. His ability justified those opportunities, but the recognition is arriving faster than the opponent’s depth.
Visibility arrived before the full opponent depth did. Mayweather did not reach that kind of stage until after he had already beaten undefeated punchers and reigning champions. He took those risks and removed those threats first. The stage came after the proof. Stevenson reached the stage while still building it.
Proof against elite opposition still builds over time
Stevenson has shown he belongs. His win over Teofimo Lopez answered real questions. His control and composure separate him from most fighters in his divisions.
Jones’ comparison skips the order Mayweather followed. Mayweather built his reputation by removing elite threats first. Recognition followed. Stevenson has the ability to build that kind of record, and he has started the process. The full list of elite prime opponents that defined Mayweather’s early career is still ahead of him.
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