The biggest American boxing showdown of early 2026 is upon us. If you’re searching for details about the Shakur Stevenson next fight, you’ve come to the right place.
On January 31, two of the sport’s brightest stars, Shakur Stevenson and Teofimo Lopez, will collide at the legendary Madison Square Garden in a battle for the WBO junior welterweight title.
This isn’t just another fight; it’s a clash of titans, a duel of contrasting styles, and a moment that could define the future of the 140-pound division. For boxing fans, it’s a can’t-miss event.
However, in today’s fragmented streaming landscape, watching the fights you love can be a challenge. With exclusive broadcast rights, geographic restrictions, and rising pay-per-view (PPV) costs, many fans are left wondering how they can tune in without breaking the bank or hitting a digital roadblock. This fight, exclusively on DAZN, is a prime example of these modern hurdles.
This guide will break down everything you need to know about the Shakur Stevenson next fight against Teofimo Lopez. We’ll explore who these fighters are, where you can watch the bout, and how a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be your key to unlocking the action securely and from anywhere in the world. Get ready to step into the ring of modern sports streaming.
The Shakur Stevenson Next Fight?
This highly anticipated matchup is more than just a title fight; it’s a collision of two distinct personalities and fighting philosophies.
On one side, you have the masterful technician, and on the other, the explosive knockout artist. The stakes couldn’t be higher, with both men in their prime and looking to cement their legacy.
Who is Shakur Stevenson?
Shakur Stevenson, often called “Fearless,” is an undefeated three-division world champion with a pristine professional record of 24 wins and no losses.
At 28 years old, the southpaw from Newark, New Jersey, is widely regarded as one of the most skilled defensive boxers in the sport today. His style is a masterclass in ring IQ, relying on exceptional footwork, head movement, and a frustratingly effective defense that includes cross checks and shoulder rolls.
While his knockout ratio of 45.83% may not seem overwhelming, his technical brilliance and accuracy have allowed him to outclass every opponent he has faced, including notable wins over Jamel Herring and Oscar Valdez.
Who is Teofimo Lopez?
Teofimo Lopez Jr., known as “The Takeover,” is the reigning WBO junior welterweight champion and a former unified lightweight king.
With a record of 22 wins, 1 loss, and 13 knockouts, the 27-year-old from Brooklyn is a force of nature.
Lopez burst onto the world stage in 2020 with a stunning upset victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko, who was then considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters on the planet.
His aggressive, power-punching style and unshakeable confidence make him one of the most exciting and dangerous fighters in boxing. This fight marks a defense of his 140-pound title against one of his most formidable challengers to date.
What Makes This Matchup So Compelling?
The classic “boxer vs. puncher” narrative is the heart of this matchup’s appeal. It pits Stevenson’s defensive wizardry and tactical precision against Lopez’s explosive power and relentless aggression.
Both fighters are in their physical prime and share a similar reach, making this a true test of skill and will. With the WBO junior welterweight title on the line and both men hailing from the New York/New Jersey area, the atmosphere at Madison Square Garden is guaranteed to be electric.
| Feature | Shakur Stevenson | Teofimo Lopez Jr. |
|---|---|---|
| Nickname | “Fearless” | “The Takeover” |
| Record | 24-0 (11 KOs) | 22-1 (13 KOs) |
| Stance | Southpaw | Orthodox |
| Style | Defensive Technician | Aggressive Power-Puncher |
| Key Strength | Ring IQ, Defense | Explosive Power, Aggression |
| Major Title | 3-Division World Champion | Undisputed Lightweight Champion |
Where Can You Watch the Shakur Stevenson Next Fight Online?
As the world of sports media continues to evolve, the days of catching every major fight on a single channel are long gone. The Stevenson vs. Lopez bout is a prime example of the modern, fragmented streaming landscape, where exclusive rights dictate where and how you can watch. For this event, one platform holds the key.
How Does DAZN Streaming Work?
DAZN is the exclusive broadcaster for the Shakur Stevenson next fight against Teofimo Lopez. This global sports streaming service has become a major player in the boxing world, hosting numerous high-profile events. To watch the fight, you will need a DAZN subscription. The platform typically offers several subscription tiers, which can vary by region:
- Monthly Flex Plan: Offers flexibility to cancel with a month’s notice. In the U.S., this is often priced around $19.99-$29.99/month.
- Annual Subscription: Provides a lower monthly cost for a 12-month commitment.
- Ultimate Tier: A newer, premium option that includes major PPV events as part of the subscription, priced higher at around $44.99/month in the U.S.
DAZN is available in a growing number of countries, including the USA, Canada, UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Japan. However, the content library and pricing can differ significantly from one country to another due to licensing agreements.
What Other Platforms Stream Boxing in 2026?
While DAZN has the exclusive rights to Stevenson-Lopez, the boxing landscape is spread across multiple services. To be a comprehensive boxing fan in 2026, you might need subscriptions to several platforms:
- ESPN+: Home to Top Rank boxing, offering a mix of fight nights and major events, though often with an additional PPV fee for the biggest bouts.
- Netflix: A new and disruptive force in boxing, Netflix has streamed massive events like Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul to its global subscriber base, bypassing the traditional PPV model.
- Paramount+: In 2026, Paramount+ is set to stream 12 boxing cards in partnership with Zuffa Boxing, further diversifying the market.
- Prime Video: Amazon’s platform has secured rights to Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) events, making it another key destination for fight fans.
This fragmentation means that following your favorite fighters often requires navigating a complex and costly web of subscriptions.
Why Are Boxing Fans Turning to VPNs?
With geographic restrictions and varying content libraries, many boxing fans are turning to VPNs to regain control over their streaming experience. A VPN can be a powerful tool for navigating the complexities of online sports streaming, but it’s essential to understand how and why they work.
What Are Geo-Restrictions and How Do They Affect Boxing Fans?
Geo-restrictions, or geo-blocks, are digital barriers that limit access to content based on a user’s geographic location.
Streaming services like DAZN use your IP address to determine where you are in the world and show you only the content licensed for that region.
This can lead to several frustrating scenarios for boxing fans:
- Blackouts: The fight might be unavailable in your region, even if you have a valid subscription.
- Travel Issues: If you’re traveling abroad, your home subscription may not work, or the content library could be different.
- Pricing Differences: Subscription and PPV prices can vary dramatically between countries.
How Do VPNs Bypass Geographic Limitations?
A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and a remote server operated by the VPN provider.
When you connect to a VPN server in a different country, it masks your real IP address and assigns you a new one from that country.
To a streaming service like DAZN, it appears as though you are accessing their platform from the server’s location, effectively bypassing the geo-blocks.
What Are the Legal Considerations of Using VPNs for Streaming?
Using a VPN for privacy and security is legal in most countries. However, using one to bypass geo-restrictions often falls into a legal gray area. While it’s not typically illegal, it usually violates the streaming service’s terms of service.
The worst-case scenario is usually having your account suspended, though this is rare. It’s important to note that using a VPN to access illegal streams is a different matter. The Protecting Lawful Streaming Act of 2020 in the U.S. has made operating a large-scale piracy service a felony, highlighting the risks associated with illegal streaming.
Why Is Online Privacy Important When Streaming?
Beyond bypassing geo-restrictions, a VPN provides a crucial layer of security and privacy. Your internet service provider (ISP) can see everything you do online, including the sites you visit and the content you stream.
Some ISPs may even throttle (slow down) your connection speed when they detect high-bandwidth activities like streaming.
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it unreadable to your ISP, advertisers, and any potential eavesdroppers, ensuring your online activities remain private and your connection speed remains consistent.
How to Choose the Best VPN for Streaming Boxing Fights?
Choosing the right VPN for streaming live sports is crucial for a smooth, buffer-free experience.
Not all VPNs are created equal, and certain features are non-negotiable when your goal is to catch every punch in high definition.
Here’s what you need to look for to ensure you have the best seat in the house, no matter where you are.
Features Matter Most for Live Sports Streaming
When selecting a VPN for boxing, prioritize these key features:
- Speed: This is the most critical factor. A fast VPN will prevent buffering and ensure you can stream the fight in the highest quality possible. Look for VPNs that consistently rank high in speed tests.
- Server Locations: A wide network of servers in various countries is essential. To watch the Stevenson-Lopez fight on DAZN, you’ll need servers in countries where DAZN is available and the fight is being shown, such as the US, UK, Canada, or Germany.
- Reliability and Uptime: The VPN should have a stable connection to avoid dropouts during crucial moments of the fight.
- Streaming Compatibility: The VPN must be able to reliably bypass geo-blocks on major streaming platforms like DAZN, which are known for actively trying to block VPN traffic.
- Security and Privacy: Strong encryption (AES-256), a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch are essential to protect your data and online anonymity.
How Fast Should Your VPN Be for HD Boxing Streams?
For a smooth streaming experience, your internet connection speed is important, but your VPN’s performance is just as critical. Here are some general guidelines for streaming quality:
- Standard Definition (SD): 3-5 Mbps
- High Definition (HD – 720p/1080p): 5-10 Mbps
- Ultra High Definition (4K): 25 Mbps
Top-tier VPNs should have a minimal impact on your base internet speed, typically reducing it by only 10-20%. All the VPNs recommended in this guide are more than capable of handling HD and even 4K streaming, provided your underlying internet connection is fast enough.
Top 5 VPNs for Watching Boxing Fights Online
After extensive research and testing, we’ve narrowed down the best VPNs for streaming the Shakur Stevenson next fight against Teofimo Lopez. These providers offer the perfect combination of speed, server availability, and reliability to ensure you don’t miss a second of the action.
How Does NordVPN Perform for Boxing Streaming?
NordVPN is our top recommendation for streaming sports, and for good reason.
It offers an exceptional blend of speed, security, and unblocking capabilities, making it a reliable choice for boxing fans.
With over 5,600 servers in 60+ countries, you’ll have no trouble finding a fast connection in a region where the fight is available. NordVPN consistently performs at the top of speed tests, ensuring a buffer-free HD streaming experience. Its SmartPlay feature is specifically designed to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming sites, and it works seamlessly with DAZN.
Furthermore, with robust security features like military-grade encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch, your online activities remain private and secure.
- Best for: Reliability and all-around performance.
- Price: Competitively priced for a premium service.
Why Is Surfshark the Best Budget Option?
For fans who want premium features without the premium price tag, Surfshark is an unbeatable value.
It is one of the fastest VPNs available and has a vast network of over 3,200 servers in 99 countries, giving you plenty of options for unblocking DAZN.
Surfshark’s standout feature is its allowance for unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all your devices—or even share your account with family—on a single subscription.
It is highly effective at unblocking streaming services and offers strong security features, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious boxing fans who don’t want to compromise on performance.
- Best for: Budget-conscious fans with multiple devices.
- Price: Very affordable with long-term plans.
What Makes ExpressVPN Worth the Premium Price?
ExpressVPN has built a reputation for being one of the most reliable and user-friendly VPNs on the market.
While it comes with a higher price tag, its performance and ease of use justify the cost for many. It is the third-fastest VPN we tested and has servers in 94 countries, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers who need to access content from anywhere in the world.
ExpressVPN is renowned for its ability to unblock streaming services, and its team works diligently to stay ahead of VPN-blocking efforts. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, premium experience with world-class customer support, ExpressVPN is a fantastic option.
- Best for: Frequent travelers and those wanting a premium, hassle-free service.
- Price: Expensive, but delivers on performance.
Does CyberGhost Deliver Maximum Speed?
If raw speed is your top priority, CyberGhost is the VPN for you. It is the fastest VPN we tested, making it ideal for streaming in the highest possible quality.
CyberGhost offers dedicated streaming servers that are optimized for specific platforms, which can simplify the process of finding a server that works with DAZN. With a massive network of over 9,000 servers in 90 countries, you’ll have plenty of choices. It also offers a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, giving you ample time to test its capabilities. While it may not work in some restrictive countries like China, it’s a speed demon for users in supported regions.
- Best for: Speed-focused users who want the fastest possible connection.
- Price: Very competitive, especially with long-term plans.
Should You Choose IPVanish for US Boxing?
IPVanish is a strong contender, particularly for US-based boxing fans.
It is the second-fastest VPN we tested and has a significant server presence in the United States, making it an excellent tool for bypassing local blackouts. Like Surfshark, it offers unlimited simultaneous connections, providing great value.
One of its unique features is phone support, a rarity in the VPN industry, which is a huge plus for users who want immediate assistance. While it may not be as effective at unblocking some streaming services as its competitors and doesn’t work in China, its speed and US server focus make it a solid choice for American sports fans.
- Best for: US-based fans dealing with local blackouts.
- Price: Higher than average, but offers great speed and support.
| VPN | Key Feature | Best For | Money-Back Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| NordVPN | All-Around Performance | Reliability & Speed | 30 Days |
| Surfshark | Unlimited Connections | Budget-Conscious Users | 30 Days |
| ExpressVPN | Global Server Network | Frequent Travelers | 30 Days |
| CyberGhost | Fastest Speeds | Maximum Streaming Quality | 45 Days |
| IPVanish | Strong US Presence | Bypassing US Blackouts | 30 Days |
How to Set Up a VPN to Watch Boxing Online?
Setting up a VPN to stream the Stevenson vs. Lopez fight is a straightforward process. By following these simple steps, you can be ready to watch the action securely in just a few minutes.
Step 1: Choose and Subscribe to a VPN Service
Select one of the recommended VPNs from our list above. For most users, NordVPN is the top choice due to its speed and reliability. Visit the provider’s website, choose a subscription plan that suits your needs, and create an account.
Step 2: Install the VPN on Your Device
Download and install the VPN application on the device you plan to use for streaming. All our recommended VPNs offer easy-to-use apps for a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even smart TVs and routers.
Step 3: Connect to the Right Server
Open the VPN app and log in. To watch the Shakur Stevenson next fight on DAZN, you will need to connect to a server in a country where the fight is available. For example, you can connect to a server in the United States, the United Kingdom, or Canada. Generally, choosing a server closer to your physical location will result in faster speeds.
Step 4: Access DAZN and Start Streaming
Once connected to the VPN, open your web browser and navigate to the DAZN website, or open the DAZN app. Log in to your account, and you should now have access to the content library for the region you selected. Find the Shakur Stevenson next fight and enjoy the show!
What to Do If the VPN Is Detected?
Streaming services sometimes try to block VPN traffic. If you encounter an error, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Switch Servers: Disconnect and reconnect to a different server in the same country.
- Clear Your Cache: Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, then restart it.
- Use Incognito Mode: Try accessing the site in a private or incognito browser window.
- Contact Support: Reach out to your VPN’s customer support for a list of servers that are currently working with DAZN.
What Other Boxing Fights Are Coming in 2026?
The start of 2026 is packed with exciting matchups for boxing fans. In addition to Stevenson vs. Lopez, the calendar is loaded with intriguing title fights across various divisions. Keep an eye out for these other key bouts:
- January 10: Subriel Matias vs. Dalton Smith for the WBC junior welterweight title.
- January 16: Gilberto Ramirez vs. Robin Sirwan Safar for the unified cruiserweight title.
- February 7: Nick Ball vs. Brandon Figueroa for the WBA featherweight title.
- February 21: Mario Barrios vs. Ryan Garcia for the WBC welterweight title.
Most of these fights will also be streamed on DAZN, making a subscription and a reliable VPN even more valuable for keeping up with all the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is using a VPN legal for streaming boxing?
Yes, using a VPN is legal in most countries. However, using it to bypass geo-restrictions may violate the streaming service’s terms of service.
Can DAZN detect and block VPNs?
Yes, DAZN actively tries to block VPNs, but top providers like NordVPN and Surfshark are constantly updating their servers to stay ahead of these blocks.
What internet speed do I need for HD boxing streams?
For a smooth HD stream, a minimum of 5-10 Mbps is recommended. For 4K, you’ll need at least 25 Mbps.
Can I watch the fight on my smart TV with a VPN?
Yes. You can either install the VPN app directly on your smart TV (if it’s supported), or you can install the VPN on your router to protect every device on your network.
Are there free VPNs that work for boxing streaming?
It is highly unlikely. Free VPNs rarely have the speed, server network, or reliability to unblock streaming services like DAZN and will likely result in a frustrating, buffered experience.
