On Saturday night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, undefeated Shakur Stevenson (23-0, 11 KOs) defended his WBC lightweight championship with a nine round beatdown of unbeaten contender Josh Padley (15-1, 4 KOs) of Yorkshire, U.K., who replaced Floyd Schofield due to illness.

The champion proved why he’s highly ranked among the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters against the late replacement, showcasing his entire arsenal of punches, focusing on Padley’s body exclusively throughout the second half.

Padley, who was working on a construction site as an electrician earlier this week, turned in a courageous performance on four days' notice. The challenger from Yorkshire refused to go down until Stevenson’s body attack ultimately became too much, resulting in three knockdowns in round nine. Despite getting back to his feet, Padley’s corner had seen enough and threw in the towel, giving Stevenson the TKO.

Following the victory, Stevenson admitted, “I just did what I was supposed to do with the person that was in front of me. Honestly, you up the level and get the top guys to get in the ring with me, I’ll make them look like that too.”

Stevenson is aiming to collide with division superstar Gervonta 'Tank' Davis, who defends his WBA lightweight world title on March 1 against Lamont Roach.

“Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis. I think that’s the biggest fight in boxing. Me and him can make the most money if we make this fight happen, so let’s do it," Stevenson said.