Stephen Fulton’s reign at featherweight may go down as one of the shortest in recent memory. The Philadelphia native (22-1, 8 KOs) captured the WBC featherweight title in his most recent outing, a hard-fought win over Brandon Figueroa. But just two fights into his run at 126 pounds, Fulton admits the cut had become too brutal to continue forcing him to move up again.
On October 25, Fulton will challenge O’Shaquie Foster (22-2, 12 KOs) for his WBC super featherweight title in Las Vegas.
Weight Issues Dictate the Move
Fulton was candid about why he’s leaving the division so soon.
“It was the weight,” Fulton said during a virtual press conference. “I wasn’t about to make the same mistakes I did in the past, so I’m like, ‘I can’t make this no more. This will be my last fight here at this weight class.’”
At age 31, Fulton reflected on staying too long at 122 pounds where he unified the WBC and WBO belts before suffering an eighth-round TKO loss to Naoya Inoue in Tokyo in July 2023. Despite that setback, Fulton has since rebuilt, winning both of his bouts at featherweight, culminating in his victory over Figueroa.
Marketable Fights Left on the Table
The decision to abandon featherweight comes despite viable, profitable options. With names like Rey Vargas, Luis Alberto Lopez, and even a possible Inoue rematch if the Japanese star returned to 126, Fulton still had opportunities to headline major fights.
But the toll of making 126 proved too much. Fulton said his focus is now on capturing a world title in a third weight division, starting with Foster.
Fulton vs. Foster: A Legacy Fight
Foster, who has emerged as one of boxing’s most consistent champions at 130, presents a fresh challenge. A victory would give Fulton another world title and cement his reputation as a multi-division star.
“This is about legacy,” Fulton said. “I’ve already been world champion in two weight classes. Now it’s time to show I can do it at 130, too.”
Gable Steveson Set for Dirty Boxing Championship 4 Main Event Against Billy Swanson
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
