Stephan Shaw vs. Raphael Akpejiori: A Must-Win Bout

Hanover, MD - In a battle between two heavyweights fighting to remain relevant, Stephan Shaw (20-2, 15 KOs) and Raphael Akpejiori (18-1, 17 KOs) will face off at Maryland Live Casino in Hanover, MD. This is a classic case of skill vs. power, with both men knowing that a loss could signal the end of any realistic hope for title contention.

Shaw, once regarded as a rising contender, saw his stock plummet after defeats to Efe Ajagba and Joe Goodall. Before his loss to Ajagba, Shaw was considered a highly skilled technician, but his performances since have raised questions about his hunger and ability to rebound. Against Goodall, Shaw appeared sluggish and unfocused, walking into a knockout that further derailed his career.

Akpejiori, on the other hand, is a massive physical presence at 6’8” and has built his record primarily on knockouts against limited opposition. His power is undeniable, but his raw technique and lack of high-level boxing experience have left doubts about whether he can truly compete at the next level. His lone loss to Arslanbek Makhmudov exposed his defensive vulnerabilities, as he was overwhelmed and stopped in two rounds.

For both fighters, this bout represents their final real opportunity to stay relevant in the heavyweight division. A win could propel the victor into a fight against a fringe contender or a rising prospect, while a loss likely relegates them to journeyman status, where they would be used to build the records of up-and-coming heavyweights.

Shaw’s Path to Victory:

• Utilize his superior boxing skills and movement.
• Keep the fight at range and avoid getting into exchanges where Akpejiori’s power could be a factor.
• Stay sharp and focused, unlike his performance against Goodall.

Akpejiori’s Path to Victory:

• Use his size and strength to apply pressure and force Shaw into uncomfortable positions.
• Land power shots early to test Shaw’s resilience.
• Avoid being outboxed by cutting off the ring and turning the fight into a physical battle.

Shaw enters this fight as the more technically sound fighter, but his lack of aggression in recent bouts is a concern. If he fights cautiously or lacks urgency, Akpejiori has the raw power to turn the fight his way. However, if Shaw stays disciplined and avoids unnecessary risks, his boxing ability should be enough to secure a points victory.

With both men fighting for their careers, expect a tense and dramatic bout at Maryland Live Casino. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Shaw and Akpejiori—one will move forward, while the other may see their career near the top level slip away for good.