Adonis Stevenson

Stevenson's known name is an inversion of his family name and given name.{{cite news| url =http://www.lapresse.ca/sports/sports-de-combat/201311/25/01-4714284-adonis-stevenson-la-vraie-histoire-de-superman.php | title = Adonis Stevenson: La vraie histoire de Superman (La Presse) | work=La Presse | date=25 November 2013}}{{cite news | url =http://blogues.radio-canada.ca/bloguesportif/2013/12/02/adonis-stevenson-nest-pas-une-victime/ | title =Adonis Stevenson n'est pas une victime (Radio-Canada) | work =Radio-Canada | date =2 December 2013 | access-date =29 January 2014 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20131206063244/http://blogues.radio-canada.ca/bloguesportif/2013/12/02/adonis-stevenson-nest-pas-une-victime/ | archive-date =6 December 2013 | url-status =dead | df =dmy-all }}{{cite news | url =http://lenouvelliste.com/lenouvelliste/article/125209/Stevenson-De-lombre-a-la-lumiere.html | title =Stevenson: de l'ombre à la lumière (Le Nouvelliste (Haiti)) | work =Le Nouvelliste (Haiti) | date =13 December 2013 | access-date =29 January 2014 | archive-date =2 December 2018 | archive-url =https://web.archive.org/web/20181202155223/https://lenouvelliste.com/lenouvelliste/article/125209/Stevenson-De-lombre-a-la-lumiere.html | url-status =dead }} Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Stevenson moved to Montreal, Quebec with his family when he was seven. By 14 years old, he was living on the streets and soon fell into a violent gang which drew him into a criminal lifestyle. In his early twenties, after a criminal trial in 1998 in Quebec, Stevenson served 18 months of a four-year prison sentence for managing prostitutes, assault, and issuing threats. While in prison, he also pleaded guilty to aggravated assault after putting a fellow inmate into a coma. After leaving prison in 2001, Stevenson vowed he would never return.[http://www.torontosun.com/2014/12/03/boxer-adonis-stevenson-fighting-his-past/ Boxer Adonis Stevenson fighting his past by Steve Buffery of the Toronto Sun]

Stevenson became the Quebec middleweight champion in 2004, and was named best amateur fighter in Canada in 2005 and again in 2006. Stevenson won the Canadian national title in 2005 and 2006. Stevenson competed in the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, Australia, and won the silver medal, losing to local Australian Jarrod Fletcher in the final. It was also the only medal won by a Canadian boxer at the Commonwealth Games.

A 29-year-old Stevenson turned professional in September 2006. His opponent was Mike Funk, another boxer making his debut, at the Montreal Casino in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Stevenson knocked Funk out with a hook in twenty-two seconds.

On August 1, 2009, at Windsor Station in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Stevenson defeated Anthony Bonsante by first round knockout. The two fighters came out of their corners for the fight with Bonsante launching the first attack, but just moments after the assault, Stevenson landed a left hand that sent Bonsante down to the canvas. Bonsante sprawled out on the canvas with his eyes closed, while the referee reached the count of six before stopping the fight. Bonsante had begun to get up at the count of six, but it was too late, leaving Bonsante livid with the decision as he chased the referee around the ring in an attempt to protest the decision, but to little avail.{{cite web| last =Henderson, Jr.| first =Benny| title =Bonsante tells the Doghouse, I was down but not out!| publisher =Doghouse Boxing| date =2008-08-02| url =http://www.doghouseboxing.com/Henderson/DHBenny080208.htm| access-date =2008-08-02 }}

{{cite web

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|url=http://www.fightnews.com/fightnews_2/headlines//EkEZyuEEZFleVApzzl.html

|access-date=2008-08-02

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080805061231/http://www.fightnews.com/fightnews_2/headlines//EkEZyuEEZFleVApzzl.html

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He also won a fifth-round TKO decision against Jermain Mackey on September 25, 2009.{{Citation|last=Diana Kate|title=Adonis Stevenson vs Jermain Mackey 2009 09 25|date=2015-07-15|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfHLK8bcWsQ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/GfHLK8bcWsQ |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-10-02}}{{cbignore}}

On April 17, 2010, in his first fight in the United States, which also was his first time fighting for promoter Lou DiBella, he suffered his first defeat being stopped in the second round by Darnell Boone. Boone had been knocked down on the canvas twice in the first round; however, in the second round, Stevenson rushed to Boone without maintaining his defense and he got caught by a solid right sending him on the canvas for the first time in his career. Stevenson managed to get back on his feet inside the count of 10; however, the referee waved the fight off as he deemed Stevenson unable to continue.{{Citation|last=Adonis Superman|title=Stevenson Adonis vs Boone Highlights|date=2013-03-25|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI4zqJTYnOc |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/BI4zqJTYnOc |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-10-02}}{{cbignore}}

Nonetheless, Stevenson resumed with GYM Promotions and won the North American title NABA on April 8, 2011, at the expense of Derek Edwards by KO in the third round. He then won by referee stoppage in the first round against Dion Savage (Shujaa El-Amin) on September 17, 2011, and retained his title against Aaron Pryor Jr on December 10, 2011, by referee stoppage in the ninth round. Stevenson jumped from 15th to 2nd position for the IBF title, winning by KO in the first round duel against Jesús González on February 18, 2012.{{Cite web |url=http://tvasports.ca/video/1460429621001 |title=TVASports February 18, 2012 (French) |access-date=2012-02-22 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120720201616/http://tvasports.ca/video/1460429621001 |archive-date=2012-07-20 |url-status=dead }}{{Cite web |url=http://tvasports.ca/video/1464794765001 |title=TVASports February 21, 2012 (French) |access-date=2012-02-22 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723014811/http://tvasports.ca/video/1464794765001 |archive-date=2012-07-23 |url-status=dead }} He then fought Noe Gonzalez on April 20, 2012, and won the fight at 1:40 in the second round when the referee stopped the fight.{{cite news|title=Boxing: Canada's Stevenson overpowers Gonzalez|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/more-sports/boxing-canadas-stevenson-overpowers-gonzalez/article4101541/|work=The Globe and Mail|access-date=2013-06-14|location=Toronto|date=2012-04-21}}

His next fight originally set to be against Don George with the winner getting a shot at the IBF champion. The fight was originally scheduled to be a co-main event of a fight card also including a match between Jean Pascal and Tavoris Cloud on August 11, 2012, but the even was cancelled due to an injury suffered by Pascal. The Stevenson fight was then moved up to August 17, 2012, and was set to be part of ESPN Friday Night Fights,{{cite web|title=Adonis Stevenson fights Don George in IBF 168 lb eliminator on August 17th|url=http://www.eastsideboxing.com/2012/adonis-stevenson-fights-don-george-in-ibf-168-lb-eliminator-on-august-17th/|work=East Side Boxing|access-date=2013-06-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130128003522/http://www.eastsideboxing.com/2012/adonis-stevenson-fights-don-george-in-ibf-168-lb-eliminator-on-august-17th/|archive-date=2013-01-28|url-status=dead}} but Stevenson later injured his hand cancelling the fight.{{cite web|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2012/08/adonis-stevenson-injures-hand-fridays-fight-with-don-george-off/ |title=Adonis Stevenson injures hand, Friday's fight with Don George off |publisher=Boxingnews24.com |date=2012-08-13 |access-date=2014-05-04}} The fight was then rescheduled to October 12.{{cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2012/8/28/3275679/adonis-stevenson-vs-don-george-rescheduled-october-12-2012-montreal-wealth-tv-boxing-news |title=Adonis Stevenson vs Don George Set For October 12 |date=28 August 2012 |publisher=Bad Left Hook |access-date=2014-05-04}} In the fight Stevenson knocked George down twice in the fifth and once in the sixth round before winning the fight with a 12th-round TKO after knocking him down twice more.{{cite news| url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/more-sports/canadas-stevenson-stops-george-in-12th-round-to-win-wild-ibf-eliminator/article4611140/ | location=Toronto | work=The Globe and Mail | title=Canada's Stevenson stops George in 12th round to win wild IBF eliminator | date=2012-10-13}}

On February 4, 2013, it was announced that Stevenson would get the chance to avenge his only loss as a professional against Darnell Boone (19–20–3, 8KOs) with the fight taking place on March 22 at the Bell Centre. With this fight, Stevenson was risking his IBF mandatory status.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-darnell-boone-ii-set-march-22--62069|title=Adonis Stevenson-Darnell Boone II Set For March 22|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} Stevenson avenged his only loss, knocking out Darnell Boone with a pair of lefts in the sixth round on March 22, 2013, at the Bell Centre. Stevenson, fighting at 171.9 pounds, forced Boone to take a knee with a right hook to the body early in the sixth, then stunned him coming out of a corner with a left uppercut, followed with a straight left that sent Boone on the canvas.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-stops-boone-alvarez-hughie-fury-win--63642|title=Adonis Stevenson Stops Boone: Alvarez, Hughie Fury Win|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}}

Stevenson moved up to light heavyweight to challenge Lineal/WBC/The Ring champion Chad Dawson (31–2, 17 KOs) on June 8, 2013, at the Bell Centre.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2013/03/adonis-stevenson-vs-chad-dawson-in-june/|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Chad Dawson in June " Boxing News|date=2013-03-14|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=2017-10-02|language=en-US}} In the press conferences leading up to the fight, Dawson called the fight a tune-up, also claiming that he had to Google Stevenson because he had never heard of him. Stevenson hit Dawson with a left hook that dropped him very early in the first round of the fight, and though Dawson got up before the count of eight the referee stopped the fight, giving Stevenson an unexpected knockout victory. Stevenson's victory was his eighth straight since his only career defeat, all coming by knockout. At 174 1/4 lbs., Stevenson was fighting at the heaviest weight of his professional career to date. In the post-fight, Stevenson told HBO's Max Kellerman, "I caught him, and that's a beautiful punch." Dawson admitted, "It was a punch I didn't see. He caught me. That's it. He caught me with a good punch." Dawson suffered his second consecutive stoppage loss. In the 76 seconds the fight lasted, Dawson landed 2 of 16 punches thrown and Stevenson landed 3 of his 15 thrown. Stevenson stated the reason he moved up was due to not being able to secure a world title fight at super middleweight, accusing Carl Froch and Mikkel Kessler of ducking him and fighting each other instead in a rematch.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/9357218/adonis-stevenson-shows-hands-mass-destruction-vs-chad-dawson|title=Stevenson shows hands of mass destruction|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-10-02}}{{Citation|last=Mickey Gohou|title=Adonis Stevenson vs Chad Dawson full fight HD|date=2014-10-18|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-83G4GV7srQ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/-83G4GV7srQ |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-10-02}}{{cbignore}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.hbo.com/boxing/fights/2013/06-08-chad-dawson-vs-adonis-stevenson/index.html|title=Chad Dawson vs. Adonis Stevenson {{!}} HBO Boxing|website=HBO|language=en|access-date=2017-10-02}} The knockout was voted as Ring Magazine Knockout of the Year for 2013.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/10219799/adonis-stevenson-chad-dawson|title=KO of the year: Stevenson-Dawson|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-10-02}}

The WBC originally ordered Stevenson to face mandatory challenger Tony Bellew, but then allowed him to make a voluntary defense first against Tavoris Cloud, where the winner of the fight must face Bellew at a later date.{{cite web|url=http://www.eastsideboxing.com/2013/wbc-gives-permission-for-adonis-stevenson-v-tavoris-cloud-fight-to-go-ahead/ |title=WBC gives permission for Adonis Stevenson v. Tavoris Cloud fight to go ahead |publisher=Eastsideboxing.com |date=2013-07-10 |access-date=2014-05-04}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2013/7/8/4505882/wbc-orders-adonis-stevenson-vs-tony-bellew-stevenson-seeks-optional|title=WBC orders Adonis Stevenson vs Tony Bellew, Stevenson seeks optional defense against Cloud|date=July 8, 2013|access-date=December 19, 2016}}

The fight against former IBF champion Tavoris Cloud (24–1, 19 KOs) was confirmed on August 12, 2013, to take place on September 28 at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, on HBO.{{cite web|last=Rafael |first=Dan |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/dan-rafael/post/_/id/4637/stevenson-cloud-deal-is-near |title=Stevenson-Cloud deal is near — Dan Rafael Blog — ESPN |date=18 July 2013 |publisher=Espn.go.com |access-date=2014-05-04}} Cloud was entering the fight coming off his first career loss, which came in March 2013 against Bernard Hopkins.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2013/8/12/4616132/adonis-stevenson-vs-tavoris-cloud-official-for-sept-28-in-montreal+&cd=6&ct=clnk&gl=uk|title=Stevenson-Cloud official for Sept. 28, HBO|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-10-02}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/9562296/adonis-stevenson-defend-175-title-vs-tavoris-cloud|title=Stevenson set to face Cloud, make 1st defense|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-10-02}} Stevenson dominated the proceedings, flustering Cloud with quick hands and shocking power. The fight ended when Cloud failed to answer the bell for the start of the eighth round. Round 7 saw Cloud hurt many times and a cut appearing on his right eye. He was also cut on the left eyelid in the opening round.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/9741820/adonis-stevenson-stops-tavoris-cloud-retain-wbc-title|title=Stevenson stops Cloud to retain WBC crown|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-10-02}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-dominates-stops-tavoris-cloud--70066|title=Adonis Stevenson Dominates and Stops Tavoris Cloud - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=28 September 2013 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-02}}

Terms were agreed for the fight on July 25, 2013. On November 30, Stevenson defended his light heavyweight title against Tony Bellew (20–1–1, 12 KOs) at the Colisée Pepsi. Stevenson became the first boxer to stop Bellew winning the fight via TKO. In round 6, Stevenson put Bellew down with a left hand, he beat the count and the referee let the fight go on. Bellew was then knocked out standing by another pair of left hands before the referee could get in and put a stop to the bout. At the time of stoppage, Stevenson was ahead on the scorecards 50–45, 49–46, and 50–45.{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/9051880/wbc-light-heavyweight-champion-adonis-stevenson-became-first-to-stop-tony-bellew|title=WBC light-heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson became first to stop Tony Bellew|date=December 1, 2013|website=Sky Sports|access-date=December 19, 2016}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/25173669|title=Tony Bellew beaten by Adonis Stevenson in WBC title fight|work=BBC Sport |date=December 1, 2013|access-date=December 19, 2016}} Bellew contemplated moving up to cruiserweight after the loss.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/25219334|title=Tony Bellew: Adonis Stevenson defeat prompts cruiserweight move|date=December 5, 2013|website=BBC Boxing|access-date=December 19, 2016}} According to Nielsen Media Research firm, the fight attracted an average of 1.3 million viewers on the HBO network, making it the 5th most watched bout of 2013.{{cite web | url=http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/nielsen-ratings-1-3-million-tune-into-stevensonkovalev-twinbill-on-hbo-during-thanksgiving-weekend-232498 | title=Nielsen Ratings: 1.3 million tune into Stevenson/Kovalev twinbill on HBO during Thanksgiving Weekend. | access-date=5 February 2014 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140208122809/http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/nielsen-ratings-1-3-million-tune-into-stevensonkovalev-twinbill-on-hbo-during-thanksgiving-weekend-232498 | archive-date=8 February 2014 | url-status=dead | df=dmy-all }}

In January 2014, 26 year old Andrzej Fonfara (25–2, 15 KOs) notified the IBF, who had ordered him to fight Dmitry Sukhotsky in a final eliminator, that he would pass on the opportunity because he had agreed a deal to fight lineal/WBC/The Ring champion Stevenson. IBF would instead order Sukhotsky to fight their #3 ranked Cedric Agnew.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-face-andrzej-fonfara-next--73746|title=Adonis Stevenson To Face Andrzej Fonfara Next|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} In February, Stevenson signed a deal with boxing adviser Al Haymon.The fight was scheduled for May 24 on HBO, until HBO cancelled the date from their boxing schedule.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-inks-agreement-with-al-haymon--74799|title=Adonis Stevenson Inks Agreement With Al Haymon|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/hbo-withdraws-4-26-date-from-its-boxing-schedule--75558|title=HBO Withdraws 4/26 Date From Its Boxing Schedule|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} On March 25, Michel confirmed the fight would take place on Showtime instead.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/stevensons-promoter-on-leaving-hbo-showtime--76017|title=Stevenson's Promoter on Leaving HBO For Showtime|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} Stevenson started off very well, dropping his opponent twice with sharp lefts and appeared close to stopping his opponent. Fonfara however, recovered very well, even dropping Stevenson in the ninth round. Stevenson similarly recovered quickly. The two fighters exchanged punches in a good-action final round and the crowd gave the fight a standing ovation. Stevenson won the fight as the judges scored it 116–109, 115–110, and 115–110. CompuBox Stats showed over the 12 rounds, Stevenson landed 329 of 790 punches thrown (42%) and Fonfara landed 217 of his 613 thrown (35%). In the post-fight interview, Stevenson claimed he hurt his left hand in the second round. He added that he was willing to fight Bernard Hopkins or Sergey Kovalev next, but would leave the decision to his manager, Al Haymon.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2014/5/24/5748902/stevenson-vs-fonfara-results-both-fighters-hit-the-canvas-stevenson|title=Both fighters hit the canvas, Stevenson wins decision|date=May 24, 2014|access-date=December 19, 2016}} Kovalev's promoter stated that this fight may never happen. That the window has now closed, alleging that Stevenson's age is a contributing factor.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/kathy-duva-sergey-kovalev-no-longer-pursuing-adonis-stevenson-fight|title=Kathy Duva: Sergey Kovalev Doesn't Want Adonis Stevenson {{!}} Fightful Boxing|website=www.fightful.com|language=en|access-date=2017-09-28|archive-date=2017-09-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170929091343/https://www.fightful.com/kathy-duva-sergey-kovalev-no-longer-pursuing-adonis-stevenson-fight|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/compubox-stevenson-it-rough-down-stretch--78206|title=CompuBox: Stevenson Had it Rough Down The Stretch|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} The fight, which marked Stevenson's Showtime debut, averaged 672,000 viewers and peaked at 800,000 viewers.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-fonfara-creates-thrills-struggles-ratings--78298|title=Stevenson-Fonfara Creates Thrills, Struggles in Ratings|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}}

In October 2014, promoter Yvon Michel of GYM announced that Stevenson would next defend his belts against Russian contender Dmitry Sukhotsky (22–2, 16 KOs) in Quebec City, Quebec, at the Colisée Pepsi on December 19, 2014, on Showtime. Sukhotsky was on a four-fight win streak at the time.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-sukhotsky-beterbiev-set-12-19--83615|title=Adonis Stevenson-Sukhotsky, Beterbiev Set For 12/19|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} Michel explained Sukhotsky was selected as Stevenson's opponent because there would not have been enough time to get together and promote a fight with Jean Pascal (29–2–1, 17 KOs). He stated the Pascal fight would likely take place in the Spring of 2015.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/stevensons-promoter-says-pascal-happens-next-spring--83823|title=Stevenson's Promoter Says Pascal Happens Next Spring|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} This was his fourth defense of his titles. Stevenson retained his belts via a fifth round stoppage following a one punch knockout. Stevenson was in control from the opening bell, throwing minimal punches as the crowd started to boo. In round 2, he managed to floor Sukhotsky with a left hand.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/12055762/adonis-stevenson-finishes-dmitry-sukhotsky-one-punch-ko|title=Adonis Stevenson KO's Sukhotsky|date=December 20, 2014|website=ESPN|access-date=December 19, 2016}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-steamrolls-dmitry-sukhotsky-five--85553|title=Adonis Stevenson Steamrolls Dmitry Sukhotsky In Five|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} According to CompuBox Stats, Stevenson landed 80 of 272 punches thrown (29%) and Sukhotsky landed only 23 oh his 136 thrown (17%).{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/forums/view.php?pg=stevenson-sukhotsky-compubox|title=Stevenson vs. Sukhotsky - CompuBox|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en|access-date=2017-12-14}}

On February 28, 2015 Premier Boxing Champions announced that Stevenson would defend his titles against 35 year old former WBC super middleweight champion Sakio Bika (32–6–3, 21 KOs) on April 4 at the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City. It was the first fight to headline PBC on CBS.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2015/2/28/8126685/stevenson-vs-bika-fight-officially-announced-for-pbc-on-cbs|title=Stevenson-Bika set for Quebec City|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-10-02}} Stevenson dropped Bika in rounds 6 and 9 en route to winning the fight on the scorecards after 12 rounds, retaining his world titles. The judges scored the fight 115–111, 116–110, and 115–110. ESPN's Dan Rafael scored the fight 120–106 for Stevenson, who dominated the fight using his left hand. Bika failed to make an adjustment and get in much offence of his own. In round 5, Stevenson landed a left which dropped Bika, but referee Michael Griffin ruled it a slip. Bika however appeared hurt. In the post-fight interview, Stevenson said, "I knew he is a tough guy, so I prepared for 12 rounds and I put on a good show. He's never been knocked out, but I dropped him." Stevenson admitted he felt Bika's power and was able to withstand anything that came his way.{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/12618932/light-heavyweight-adonis-stevenson-dominates-sakio-bika-retain-world-title|title=Adonis Stevenson outpoints Sakio Bika to retain light heavyweight crown|date=April 4, 2015|publisher=ESPN|access-date=December 19, 2016}}{{Cite news|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2420257-adonis-stevenson-vs-sakio-bika-winner-scorecard-and-reaction|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Sakio Bika: Winner, Scorecard and Reaction|last=Mazique|first=Brian|work=Bleacher Report|access-date=2017-10-02|language=en-US}}

On July 27, 2015 Premier Boxing Champions announced that Stevenson would headline a card on Spike TV on September 11 against WBC #9 ranked Tommy Karpency (25–4–1, 14 KOs) at the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto. Karpency, previously coming off the biggest win of his career, a split decision win against Chad Dawson, the man who Stevenson beat to win the light heavyweight championship.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-face-tommy-karpency-on-sept-11--93991|title=Adonis Stevenson To Face Tommy Karpency on Sept. 11|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-karpency-razor-ruddock-added-card--94326|title=Stevenson-Karpency: Razor Ruddock Added To The Card|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} Karpency was thought to be a stepping stone for Adonis, and he was. After barely escaping round 2, Karpency got knocked down at the beginning of round 3. He immediately knocked Karpency down after he got up, and the referee called a halt to the bout, awarding Stevenson a TKO victory in round 3.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/13634852/adonis-stevenson-defeats-tommy-karpency-defend-light-heavyweight-title|title=Stevenson overpowers Karpency in 3rd-round TKO|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-06-04}} The fight averaged 581,000 viewers.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-karpency-pbc-on-spike-rating-581k--95821|title=Stevenson-Karpency PBC on Spike Rating at 581K|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}}

In November 2015, citing the fact that Stevenson hadn't faced a top-ranked opponent in the last two years, The Ring Magazine stripped Stevenson of his belt.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2015/11/24/9792818/adonis-stevenson-and-yoan-pablo-hernandez-stripped-of-ring-titles|title=Adonis Stevenson and Yoan Pablo Hernandez stripped of RING titles|last=Stumberg|first=Patrick L.|date=2015-11-24|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2016-07-29}}

On May 31, 2016, it was announced that Stevenson would defend his WBC and Lineal titles against 28 year old southpaw Thomas Williams Jr. (20–1, 14 KOs) on July 16 in Quebec headlining a Premier Boxing Champions card. This was Stevenson's seventh defense of his WBC and Lineal light heavyweight titles.{{Cite web|url=http://ringtv.craveonline.com/news/423799-adonis-stevenson-announces-he-will-fight-thomas-williams-july-16|title=Adonis Stevenson announces he will fight Thomas Williams July 16 - Ring TV|date=2016-05-31|website=Ring TV|language=en-US|access-date=2016-06-10}} Williams weighed in the heaviest of the two at 174.6 pounds, with Stevenson weighing in at 173.6 pounds.{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10516077/adonis-stevenson-to-ko-thomas-williams-jr-as-daughters-birthday-present|title=Official Weigh-ins|date=July 29, 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=July 29, 2016}} In a brief slug fest, Stevenson knocked out Williams in round 4 to retain his titles in his seventh successful defense. Stevenson connected with a hard left to Williams' head in round one that floored him with approximately 30 seconds left, however Williams beat the referees count.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/17176577/adonis-stevenson-knocks-thomas-williams-jr-fourth-round-retain-light-heavyweight-world-title|title=Stevenson stops Williams in 7th straight defense|date=30 July 2016 |access-date=2016-07-30}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-with-vicious-knockout-williams-four--107209|title=Adonis Stevenson With Vicious Knockout of Williams in Four|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}}

Undefeated Colombian boxer Eleider Álvarez (22–0, 11 KOs) became mandatory challenger following his win over Isaac Chilemba in November 2015. He then knocked out former super-middleweight world champion Lucian Bute in February 2017 in a final eliminator to become mandatory challenger once again for the WBC light heavyweight title. On February 27, 2017, the WBC ordered negotiations to begin between Stevenson and Álvarez, who are both managed by Al Haymon and promoted by Yvon Michel of GYM for a deal to be reached within 30 days or they would force a purse bid on March 24. Stevenson had a return date scheduled for April 29 at the newly renovated Nassau Coliseum in New York.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/18786163/wbc-orders-deontay-wilder-adonis-stevenson-mandatory-defenses|title=WBC mandates Wilder, Stevenson defenses|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-02-28}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-eleider-alvarez-purse-bid-set-march-24--114047|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Eleider Alvarez - Purse Bid Set For March 24 - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=27 February 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-02-28}} Promoter Yvon Michel, stated on behalf of Álvarez, that he had averted from his mandatory position to allow Stevenson a voluntary defence.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/eleider-alvarez-steps-aside-to-allow-adonis-stevenson-another-voluntary-world-title-defence/|title=Eleider Alvarez steps aside to allow Adonis Stevenson another voluntary world title defence - Boxing News|date=2017-03-16|work=Boxing News|access-date=2017-03-16|language=en-US}}

On April 8, Stevenson revealed on social media that he had finalized a deal to fight Andrzej Fonfara (29–4, 17 KOs) in a rematch from their first fight in 2014. Yvon Michel later told ESPN that the fight would take place in Canada, at the Centre Bell in Montreal Quebec on June 3, 2017. The last time Stevenson fought at that arena was in 2014 against Fonfara. Fonfara was ranked #6 by the WBC at the time.{{Cite web|title=Stevenson vs Fonfara - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/stevenson-vs-fonfara-2/|access-date=2021-09-02|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}} Michel didn't go into detail around why a fight with Sean Monaghan, who he was tipped to fight originally in New York, never materialized, but said, if he continues winning, the fight could still happen.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/19111255/light-heavyweight-world-champion-adonis-stevenson-face-andrzej-fonfara-rematch-june-3|title=Stevenson-Fonfara rematch set for June 3|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-09}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-andrzej-fonfara-rematch-on-june-3--115420|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Andrzej Fonfara Rematch on June 3 - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=8 April 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-09}} Fonfara started the fight well in round 1, connecting with the jab. Stevenson, who was patient with his left hand, eventually landed a left hook to the head of Fonfara, dropping him to the canvas. Fonfara beat the count, but was on steady legs and when he got backed up to in the corner, the bell saved him from an onslaught. Round 2 opened with Stevenson carrying on where he left of, pummeling Fonfara with huge lefts. The fight came to an abrupt end, when Fonfara's trainer, Virgil Hunter stepped up on the apron after just 28 seconds, motioning to the referee to stop the bout, which referee Michael Griffin did. Stevenson retained his WBC and Lineal world titles. When asked who Stevenson would fight next, he replied, "I'm the greatest at 175. I don't have to call out anybody," On the same card, Eleider Álvarez defeated Jean Pascal via majority decision to remain mandatory to Stevenson.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-demolishes-andrzej-fonfara-two-results--117220|title=Adonis Stevenson Demolishes Andrzej Fonfara in Two Rounds - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=3 June 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-06-04}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/502038-adonis-stevenson-makes-quick-work-andrzej-fonfara-rematch/|title=Adonis Stevenson makes quick work of Andrzej Fonfara in rematch - The Ring|date=2017-06-03|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-06-04|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/eleider-alvarez-decisions-jean-pascal-retain-mandatory-results--117218|title=Eleider Alvarez Decisions Jean Pascal To Retain Mandatory Spot - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=3 June 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-06-04}}

After Badou Jack (21–1–3, 13 KOs) defeated Nathan Cleverly in August 2017, to win the WBA 'Regular' light heavyweight title, he began to call out Stevenson, knowing that Stevenson had a mandatory challenger. Stevenson shrugged it off, claiming he was ready for anyone, "It was a good performance. He beat Cleverly now. So now he called me out and I'm ready. I'm ready to fight and I'm ready to unify the title. For Andre Ward or him, I'm ready. It doesn't matter to me [which one]. It's great for me to unify and add another title to my collection. I want to unify the titles. This is my goal and that's what I want to do."{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-badou-jack-you-called-me-out-im-ready--120105|title=Adonis Stevenson To Badou Jack: You Called Me Out - I'm Ready! - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=3 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-09}} On September 8, 2017, mutual promoter Yvon Michel disclosed that there was serious ongoing negotiations between Stevenson and mandatory challenger Eleider Álvarez (23–0, 11 KOs) to fight before the end on 2017. He revealed the fight would take place in Quebec.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-eleider-alvarez-serious-negotiations--120292|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Eleider Alvarez in Serious Negotiations - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=8 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-09}} In September, Michel said that he had a difficult time finalizing a date and venue for the fight, which meant the fight could get pushed to the end of January 2018. He also responded to claims of Jack wanting to fight Stevenson, saying it would only be possible if it were a unification.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-eleider-alvarez-get-pushed-2018--120997|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Eleider Alvarez May Get Pushed To 2018 - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-02}} Michel confirmed the fight would take place on Showtime in January 2018. Michel spoke to Showtime about not going head to head locally with David Lemieux's next fight, which would take place on December 16 on HBO.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-eleider-alvarez-confirmed-2018--121497|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Eleider Alvarez Confirmed For 2018 - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=16 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-17}} On November 8, there was rumours stating that Stevenson would once again pay Álvarez a step-aside fee, in order to fight Badou Jack. Álvarez spoke to TVA Sports saying, "I do not think I'm going to fight Stevenson. I do expect to receive that (step-aside offer), and then I will analyze it with my team."{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/alvarez-furious-with-wbc-doubts-adonis-stevenson-bout-happens--122244|title=Alvarez Furious With WBC, Doubts Adonis Stevenson Bout Happens - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=8 November 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-11-11}} On December 1, it was reported that GYM had offered Álvarez a step-aside deal which would give him 'a multi-fight agreement with six-figure guarantee per fight', with Stevenson being part of deal as well.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/alvarez-sign-step-aside-adonis-stevenson-vs-badou-jack-next--123001|title=Alvarez To Sign Step-Aside, Adonis Stevenson vs. Badou Jack Next?|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-02|language=en-us}} On December 6, the WBC announced that they would investigate into Stevenson's title reign and lack of mandatories.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/wbc-investigating-adonis-stevenson-lack-mandatories--123129|title=WBC Investigating Adonis Stevenson and Lack of Mandatories|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2017-12-14|language=en-us}} A week later, the WBC stated they would allow Stevenson to avoid Álvarez once again in order to fight Jack. The WBC went on to state they would order Álvarez to fight Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Gvozdyk (14–0, 12 KOs) for the interim title.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2017/12/14/16776530/wbc-allows-stevenson-step-aside-orders-eleider-alvarez-vs-oleksandr-gvozdyk|title=WBC allows Stevenson step-aside, orders Alvarez vs. Gvozdyk|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-12-14}} Álvarez withdrew from the fight before the purse bid was scheduled on January 12, 2018.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/eleider-alvarez-withdraws-from-oleksandr-gvozdyk-purse-bid--124174|title=Eleider Alvarez Withdraws From Oleksandr Gvozdyk Purse Bid|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-13|language=en-us}} On January 24, 2018, Showtime confirmed the fight would take place on May 19 in Canada.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/527054-adonis-stevenson-defend-light-heavyweight-title-vs-badou-jack-may-19-canada/|title=Adonis Stevenson to defend 175-pound title vs. Badou Jack on May 19 in Canada - The Ring|date=2018-01-24|work=The Ring|access-date=2018-01-25|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/broner-figueroa-stevenson-jack-lara-hurd-set-showtime--124600|title=Broner-Figueroa, Stevenson-Jack, Lara-Hurd Set For Showtime|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-25|language=en-us}} The Bell Centre in Montreal was confirmed as the venue.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-jack-take-place-19-montreals-bell-centre--125074|title=Stevenson-Jack to Take Place May 19 at Montreal's Bell Centre|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-09|language=en-us}}

On April 11, news broke out from Álvarez's manager, Stephane Lepine that a deal was yet to be reached with Álvarez to be properly compensated. Yvon Michel admitted he was working on a deal to keep Álvarez happy and this was the same reason as to why tickets had not yet gone on sale for the Stevenson-Jack fight, which was a month away.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/eleider-alvarez-situation-holding-up-stevenson-jack-promotion--127079|title=Eleider Alvarez Situation Holding Up Stevenson-Jack Promotion|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-14|language=en-us}} On April 18, it was announced that a deal had been reached for Álvarez to challenge Sergey Kovalev (32–2–1, 28 KOs) for his WBO light heavyweight title on HBO. Kovalev was originally scheduled to fight contender Marcus Browne in the summer of 2018, however due to having been arrested for domestic violence, Kovalev's promoter, Kathy Duva of Main Events got in contact with Álvarez's manager Lepine about a potential fight. Due to Álvarez fighting Kovalev, this meant the announcement of Stevenson vs. Jack would be imminent.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/kovalev-fight-eleider-alvarez-not-browne-date-venue-tba--127290|title=Kovalev To Fight Eleider Alvarez, Not Browne; Date, Venue TBA|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-19|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/sergey-kovalev-promoter-details-eleider-alvarez-deal--127301|title=Sergey Kovalev's Promoter Details The Eleider Alvarez Deal|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-19|language=en-us}} On April 23, the card was moved from Montreal and instead scheduled to take place at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-vs-jack-now-heads-toronto-not-montreal--127475|title=Stevenson vs. Jack Now Heads To Toronto, Not Montreal|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-24|language=en-us}} A day later, the official press conference was held to announce the fight.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/photos-adonis-stevenson-badou-jack-face-face-montreal--127534|title=Photos: Adonis Stevenson, Badou Jack - Face To Face in Toronto|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-26|language=en-us}}

Stevenson and Jack fought to a majority draw in a competitive bout. One judge scored the fight 115–113 in favor of Jack, whilst the remaining two judges overruled the decision, scoring the fight 114–114. Stevenson outpointed Jack in the early rounds being more active, however from round 5, it was Jack who was the busier and accurate of the two. From rounds 7 through 10, Jack out landed Stevenson 114–40 in total shots landed. It was in round 10 were Jack was hurt from multiple body shots from Stevenson's right hand. Stevenson carried the momentum into round 11 but it was Jack who finished the fight stronger. In round 7, Stevenson complained to referee Ian John Lewis about low blows and in round 8, Jack was warned. Jack later explained Stevenson's cup was low, hence why the shots looked like low blows. With the draw, Stevenson retained his WBC and Lineal titles for the ninth time. Jack was ranked as #1 at light heavyweight by the WBC at the time.{{Cite web|title=Stevenson vs Jack - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/stevenson-vs-jack/|access-date=2021-09-02|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/23551419/adonis-stevenson-fights-badou-jack-majority-draw-retains-light-heavyweight-title|title=Stevenson fades, keeps title with draw vs. Jack|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-05-22}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11379248/stevenson-vs-jack-adonis-stevenson-and-badou-jack-battle-to-a-majority-draw|title=Stevenson vs Jack: Adonis Stevenson and Badou Jack battle to a majority draw|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2018-05-22|language=en}}

During the post fight interviews, Stevenson told Steve Gray, "I won the fight because I hurt him in the body. I hurt him in the body and he got slowed down. I kept the pressure on him. He was moving and moving – slick, slick – but I touched him more of the time and I think I won this fight." Speaking on the 3rd draw in his last 4 fights (before Bute was DQ'd for failed drug test), Jack stated, "I have no idea. It could be they're jealous of Floyd (Mayweather). I'm one of Floyd's top fighters. Maybe they don't like Floyd. Maybe they're trying to – you know, I don't know. To be honest, I don't know. I've gotta thank God for everything. ... I can't do anything about it. I thought I definitely won the fight, definitely won the fight. Nobody's complaining and no judge had him winning." According to CompuBox Stats, Stevenson landed 165 of 622 punches thrown (27%), 87 of which were power shots landed to the body and Jack landed 209 of his 549 thrown (38%){{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-badou-jack-majority-draw-results--128325|title=Adonis Stevenson, Badou Jack Battle To a Majority Draw|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-22|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-badou-jack-compubox-punch-stats--128346|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Badou Jack - CompuBox Punch Stats|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-22|language=en-us}} The fight averaged 535,000 viewers and peaked at 611,000 viewers on Showtime. The fight aired on pay-per-view in Canada.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-jack-broadcast-peaked-611000-viewers-on-showtime--128405|title=Stevenson-Jack Broadcast Peaked at 611,000 Viewers on Showtime|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-23|language=en-us}}

On June 18, 2018, the WBC ordered Stevenson to make a mandatory defence against interim champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (15–0, 12 KOs). In case a deal could not be reached, purse bids were set for July 2, 2018, where the split of 65-35 would be in favour of Stevenson.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/6/18/17475752/stevenson-vs-gvozdyk-ordered-by-wbc|title=Stevenson vs Gvozdyk ordered by WBC|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-07-06}} Yvon Michel of GYM won the rights to promote the fight with the winning bid of $2.1 million. He stated the fight was being targeted for November 3, 2018, in Quebec.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=35322|title=BOXINGTALK : YVON MICHEL WINS STEVENSON-GVOZDYK PURSE BID; NOV. 3RD IS TARGET DATE|website=www.boxingtalk.com|access-date=2018-07-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706191345/http://www.boxingtalk.com/pag/article.php?aid=35322|archive-date=2018-07-06|url-status=dead}} Top Rank made a bid of $1.65 million.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-vs-oleksandr-gvozdyk-eyed-november-3--129628|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk Eyed For November 3|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-07-06|language=en-us}} There was controversy surrounding the purse bids and claims of collusion by Top Rank. Initially, the bid was won by Phil Weiss on behalf of Tom Brown's TGB Promotions, with the winning bid at $3.102 million. TGB Promotions was known at the time for having close ties with Al Haymon, who was also the advisor of Stevenson.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/7/3/17530312/top-rank-cries-collusion-on-stevenson-gvozdyk-purse-bid|title=Top Rank cries collusion on Stevenson-Gvozdyk purse bid|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-07-06}} According to reports, the winning bid was withdrawn just minutes later. The next highest bidder, Michel, automatically won the bid, winning the rights to the fight. The WBC stated they would look into the claims.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/stevenson-vs-gvozdyk-michel-reacts-purse-bid-controversy--129659|title=Stevenson vs. Gvozdyk: Michel Reacts To Purse Bid Controversy|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-07-06|language=en-us}} On July 6, the WBC upheld the purse bid giving Michel the promotional rights, however also stated they would impose punishment on TGB promotions of some sort.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/7/6/17539880/wbc-upholds-stevenson-gvozdyk-purse-bid|title=WBC upholds Stevenson-Gvozdyk purse bid|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-07-06}} WBC president tweeted the bout would take place on December 1, 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/8/16/17703692/adonis-stevenson-vs-oleksandr-gvozdyk-set-for-december-1st-in-montreal|title=Adonis Stevenson vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk set for December 1st in Montreal|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-08-17}} Showtime confirmed they would televise the bout, which took place at Videotron Centre in Quebec, before the Deontay Wilder-Tyson Fury PPV telecast at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California.

Gvozdyk ended Stevenson's five-year reign as champion by stopping him in round 11 by TKO to claim the WBC and Lineal titles.

Gvozdyk knocked Stevenson down with a counter right hand to the head in the opening seconds of the third round, which was incorrectly ruled a slip by referee Michael Griffin. Gvozdyk was the busier boxer through the mid rounds, using his movement to box on the outside, although Stevenson looked to be landing the better shots in some rounds. In round nine, Stevenson started throwing body shots, with some success, while Stevenson seemed to be fading. In round 10, Gvozdyk was hurt by a left hand that would have sent him sprawling but for the ropes; the referee declined to call a knockdown. In round 11, Gvozdyk unloaded a 10-punch flurry that sent Stevenson down for good, the referee stopping the bout as soon as Stevenson went to the canvas. The time of stoppage was 2 minutes and 49 seconds of the round. At the time of stoppage, Stevenson was ahead 98–92 and 96–94 on two of the judges scorecards and the third judge had it 95–95. Gvozdyk celebrated with his team and trainer Teddy Atlas, but they composed themselves quickly as soon as they realized Stevenson was badly hurt. Stevenson was able to sit back on his stool whilst doctors checked on him.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/25427766|title=Stevenson in critical condition after knockout|date=2018-12-02|website=ESPN.com|language=en|access-date=2018-12-21}} In the post-fight interviews, Gvozdyk said, "This win means everything to me. I've trained my whole life for this, and tonight, all of the hard work was worth it." He also praised his new trainer Atlas. Stevenson began to feel dizzy in his dressing room, and was taken to a local hospital.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gvozdyk-knocks-adonis-stevenson-out-eleven-results--134232|title=Gvozdyk Knocks Adonis Stevenson Out in Eleven For WBC Title|website=BoxingScene.com|date=December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-21}} Atlas ruled the 98-92 scorecard from Canadian judge Jack Woodburn as 'criminal'. Atlas also felt that the referee should not have missed the third-round knockdown, but called Michael Griffin a fair and honest referee.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gvozdyks-trainer-atlas-calls-98-92-score-stevenson-criminal--134245|title=Gvozdyk's Trainer Atlas Calls 98-92 Score For Stevenson 'Criminal'|website=BoxingScene.com|date=2 December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-21}}

The morning after the fight, it was reported that Stevenson was in critical condition in intensive care.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-remains-hospitalized-intensive-care--134254|title=Adonis Stevenson Remains Hospitalized in Intensive Care|website=BoxingScene.com|date=2 December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-21}} The following Monday, his condition was changed to stable from critical and was placed in an induced coma.{{Cite web|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/boxing/adonis-stevenson-placed-in-medically-induced-coma-report/news-story/1321abe70ae1c24c008d6c3ffddcafbc|title=Adonis Stevenson moved from critical to stable condition|date=2018-12-03|website=Fox Sports|language=en-AU|access-date=2018-12-21}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevensons-condition-changed-from-critical-stable--134268|title=Adonis Stevenson's Condition Changed From Critical To Stable|website=BoxingScene.com|date=2 December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-21}} On December 20, despite a Russian tabloid reporting Stevenson had woken up and was seen speaking to family and friends, his promoter Yvon Michel stated he was still unconscious and his health had not improved since being sedated by doctors. He also required 'mechanical assistance' to breathe.{{Cite web|url=https://112.international/sport/adonis-stevenson-comes-out-of-coma-after-fight-with-ukrainian-gvozdyk-35243.html|title=Adonis Stevenson comes out of coma after fight with Ukrainian Gvozdyk|website=112.international|language=en-US|access-date=2018-12-21}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-still-coma-not-improved-says-promoter--134803|title=Adonis Stevenson Still in a Coma, Not Improved, Says Promoter|website=BoxingScene.com|date=20 December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-21}} On December 22, according to his girlfriend Simone God, Stevenson had woken up.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-awake-recovering-says-girlfriend--134865|title=Adonis Stevenson is Awake, Recovering, Says Girlfriend|website=BoxingScene.com|date=22 December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-24}} As of February 18, 2019, Stevenson moved to a medical facility in Montreal, Canada, to continue receiving treatment related to his recovery. According to ESPN Deportes, Stevenson is talking and moving, becoming more mobile every day, and is well on the road to recovery.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-continues-hard-road-recovery-says-fiance--136374|title=Adonis Stevenson Continues Hard Road To Recovery, Says Fiance|website=BoxingScene.com|date=18 February 2019 |language=en-us|access-date=2019-03-25}}

Stevenson gave his first public interview in June 2019. He was in good spirits accompanied by his partner Simone God. His recover had amazed doctors. He told to TVA Sports, "I'm back, Adonis is back! 'God heard us. When I came home, I said my children's names and they said 'papa, you remember'. You learn to walk, you learn to eat, you learn a pack of business when you're in a coma. That's the hardest thing for me. And I learned, it happened really fast. It's going well, I'm in shape, it's good to be back, we take it day by day." Discussing his future in boxing, he wanted to help young children learn boxing.{{Cite web |title=Adonis Stevenson in Good Spirits During First Public Interview |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-good-spirits-during-first-public-interview--139779 |access-date=2025-02-04 |website=www.boxingscene.com |language=en}} in October 2019, footage was released from a gym in Canada showing Stevenson hitting heavy bag. Ahead of his unification bout with Artur Beterbiev, Gvozdyk spoke off Stevenson's recovery. He did not feel guilty or burdened of Stevenson's injury. He said, "It’s boxing. Things happen a lot of ways. Or maybe it was because he was 41 years of age. I don’t know what happened." He had not spoken to Stevenson in-person, but had followed his recovery online. He also had sleepless nights thinking of the damage he could have potentially caused.{{Cite web |title=Unburdened Gvozdyk 'Very Happy' Adonis Stevenson's Healthy |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/unburdened-gvozdyk-very-happy-adonis-stevensons-healthy--143445 |access-date=2025-02-04 |website=www.boxingscene.com |language=en}}

In January 2021, Stevenson spoke to RDC. He stated he was happy and healthy, although not 100% recovered due to the injury itself. He said boxing saved his life and from the streets. He was grateful to the WBC for making him “Champion of Hope", which was announced at their convention. Stevenson added, “This belt means a lot to me. It is being able to help people who have suffered concussions. I have this belt so I can help people who have problems. God brought me back to help. Boxing saved me. She saved me from the streets. How could I regret something that made me feel good? It was an accident that happened [in the fight with Gvozdyk]."{{Cite web |title=Adonis Stevenson Happy, Healthy Two Years After Being Close To Death |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-happy-healthy-two-years-being-close-death--154563 |access-date=2025-02-04 |website=www.boxingscene.com |language=en}}

In 2012, in response to questioning at a press conference before a fight, Stevenson admitted to previously serving jail time in Bordeaux, Quebec, on charges of managing prostitutes, assault, and making threats.{{cite web|last=Boxing|first=Phil|title=Boxer Adonis Stevenson admits criminal past after years of suspicion|url=http://philboxing.com/news/story-66524.html|work=The Philippine boxing Journal|publisher=philboxing.com|access-date=11 December 2013}} Stevenson served four years in prison for these crimes, and offenses which took place while incarcerated. Stevenson was released in 2001.[https://web.archive.org/web/20131221023434/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/mma/news/20131218/fighter-of-year-boxing-adonis-stevenson/ SI.com 2013 Fighter of the Year: Adonis Stevenson – MMA – Chris Mannix]. sportsillustrated.cnn.com (2013-12-18)

On April 12, 2020 it was reported that Stevenson's mother had filed a lawsuit on his behalf against his former fiancé Simone God. Stevenson and God's relationship ended in December 2019. The lawsuit claims that an amount of $891,000 was withdrawn without permission from Stevenson's personal bank account by God. Yvon Michel, Stevenson's promoter was aware of this and said Stevenson would make a statement himself. He also said the whole situation would not have a big impact on Stevenson's finances despite the loss.{{Cite web |title=Adonis Stevenson's Mother Sues His Ex Over Money Taken From Bank |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevensons-mother-sues-his-ex-over-money-taken-from-bank--148225 |access-date=2025-02-04 |website=www.boxingscene.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2020-04-11 |title=Stevenson's mother sues her son's ex for illegally withdrawn money |url=https://ringside24.com/en/38157-mat-stivensona-suditsya-s-byvshej-devushkoj-syna-za-nezakonno-snyatye-so-scheta-dengi |access-date=2025-02-04 |website=ringside24.com |language=en}} It was revealed in December 2018 that God was appointed as provisional administrator of Stevenson's property and only six months later a judge ordered an independent accounting firm to manage Stevenson's assets. Speaking to La Presse, he said:

{{Block quote|text="I want to help people who have concussion problems. I realized that if they don't have someone to help them, it's easy for people who are vulnerable to be tricked. I was vulnerable. I am not fooling myself, I have been vulnerable. I felt betrayed."

"Simone God, I'm not going to lie, I loved her very much. But she abused my trust. She is a good manipulator. There are a lot of things she has done ... this situation is very hard for me. I thought it was for life, me and her. Wherever I was, she was there."

"You know, when you love the person and you know they will never do anything to you, it hurts. It hurts. Really. She hurt me. But I don't want to start throwing insults through the media, I will let the legal system settle this. When you have had a concussion like that, you realize that family is the cornerstone. Anyone who has problems like that, if they get a chance to see their family, go for it. Its very important."

“When I was with the other [Simone], I was blocked, I couldn't express myself. I can say how I feel now. Before, I was afraid, because she put me in doubt. Now I'm free, free, free. A free man. I have no one left to tell me what to say. I feel that my mother is there for me. I feel surrounded by love with my mother and my family. Mentally, this is something that is good for me and that allows me to recover. I recovered a lot. My mom, really, played a big part in this. I feel better mentally."}}

God released an open letter on social media. In this letter, she claimed the money she had been accused of stealing, was in fact money towards a property which was due to be finished.{{Cite web |title=Adonis Stevenson on Legal Battle With Ex-Wife: She is a Good Manipulator |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/adonis-stevenson-on-legal-battle-with-ex-wife-she-good-manipulator--148322 |access-date=2025-02-04 |website=www.boxingscene.com |language=en}}

{{BoxingRecordSummary

|draws=1

|ko-wins=24

|ko-losses=2

|dec-wins=5

}}

• List of light heavyweight boxing champions
• List of WBC world champions

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{BoxRec|id=372003}}
• [http://www.cyberboxingzone.com/boxing/stevenson-adonis.htm Adonis Stevenson] at Cyber Boxing Zone
• [https://box.live/boxers/adonis-stevenson/ Adonis Stevenson - Profile, News Archive & Current Rankings] at Box.Live
• {{CGF profile}}
• {{2006 Commonwealth Games profile}}

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{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=Regional boxing titles}}

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{{s-vac|last=Jean Pascal}}

{{s-ttl|title=Canada super-middleweight champion

|years=December 7, 2007 – June 2013
Vacated}}

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{{s-ttl|title=WBC Continental Americas
super-middleweight champion

|years=April 5, 2008 – September 25, 2009
Won International title}}

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{{s-ttl|title=WBC International
super-middleweight champion

|years=September 25, 2009 – April 2010
Vacated}}

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{{s-vac|last=Kingsley Ikeke}}

{{s-ttl|title=NABA super-middleweight champion

|years=April 8, 2011 – February 2012
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Erik Bazinyan}}

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{{s-vac|last=Renan St-Juste}}

{{s-ttl|title=NABO super-middleweight champion

|years=December 10, 2011 – February 2012
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Gilberto Ramírez}}

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{{s-vac|last=Michael Henrotin}}

{{s-ttl|title=IBF Inter-Continental
super-middleweight champion

|years=February 18, 2012 – April 2012
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Ünsal Arik}}

{{s-bef|before=Noe Gonzalez Alcoba}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC Silver
super-middleweight champion

|years=April 20, 2012 – October 2012
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=James DeGale}}

{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=World boxing titles}}

{{s-bef|rows=2|before=Chad Dawson}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC light-heavyweight champion

|years=June 8, 2013 – December 1, 2018}}

{{s-aft|after=Oleksandr Gvozdyk}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-ttl|title=The Ring light-heavyweight champion

|years=June 8, 2013 – November 23, 2015
Stripped}}

{{s-vac|next=Andre Ward}}

{{s-ach|aw}}

{{s-before|before=Juan Manuel Márquez}}

{{s-ttl|title=The Ring Fighter of the Year

|years=2013}}

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{{s-before|rows=2|before=Juan Manuel Márquez
KO6 Manny Pacquiao}}

{{s-ttl|title=The Ring Knockout of the Year
TKO1 Chad Dawson

|years=2013}}

{{s-after|after=Carl Froch
KO8 George Groves}}

{{s-ttl|title=ESPN Knockout of the Year
TKO1 Chad Dawson

|years=2013}}

{{s-after|after=Wladimir Klitschko
KO5 Kubrat Pulev}}

{{s-end}}

{{Ring magazine Fighter of the Year}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Stevenson, Adonis}}

Category:Living people

Category:1977 births

Category:Sportspeople from Port-au-Prince

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Category:Super-middleweight boxers

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Category:People with traumatic brain injuries

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Category:Medallists at the 2006 Commonwealth Games