Oscar De La Hoya says Shakur Stevenson should be ‘ashamed’ over sanction fee dispute

Boxing News

by Ken Woods

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Golden Boy promoter Oscar De La Hoya has weighed in on the ongoing sanction fee dispute involving WBO featherweight champion Shakur Stevenson. De La Hoya criticized Stevenson, stating that he should feel ashamed for failing to honor his financial obligations tied to title recognition. Sanction fees are crucial for maintaining the legitimacy and structure of boxing organizations, as they ensure that champions uphold their commitments to the sport and its governing bodies. De La Hoya’s comments come after Stevenson reportedly missed a deadline to pay $105,000 in sanction fees owed to the WBO. These fees are typically required from boxers who hold world titles, as they help fund the operations of the organizations that recognize their championships. De La Hoya emphasized the importance of honoring such financial responsibilities, asserting that failure to do so undermines the integrity of the sport and its governing bodies. The dispute highlights a broader issue within boxing about the transparency and enforcement of financial obligations among fighters. While promoters like De La Hoya advocate for accountability, some fighters argue that the fees are exorbitant or that they should be negotiated as part of their contracts. Stevenson’s case has sparked debate among fans, commentators, and other stakeholders in the sport, with many calling for clearer guidelines and fairer agreements. Ultimately, this matter underscores the delicate balance between financial responsibilities and the rights of athletes in professional sports. For readers interested in boxing, understanding the implications of such disputes is crucial, as they often reflect larger challenges within the industry, including issues of transparency, governance, and athlete welfare.

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Originally published on Boxing News on 2/20/2026