But Stevenson’s story isn’t solely about titles and triumphs. It’s about a young man who, despite early hardships, found purpose in the ring and used it as a platform to uplift those around him. His narrative intertwines personal growth, community commitment, and an unwavering drive to excel.
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Vitali Klitschko Complete Profile
| Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 28, 1997 |
| Age | 27 (as of May 2025) |
| Birth Place | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Residence | Newark, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Attended public schools in Newark; primary focus on boxing from an early age |
| Profession | Professional Boxer (Three-division World Champion) |
| Marital Status | Engaged to Michelle Ragston (known professionally as Young Lyric) |
| Father | Alfredo Rivera (biological father, of Puerto Rican descent) |
| Mother | Malikah Stevenson |
| Spouse | Not married; engaged to Michelle Ragston |
| Children | One daughter: Leilani Asha Stevenson (born December 2021) |
| Siblings | Nine younger siblings |
| Religion | Identifies as spiritual; acknowledges being “supposed to be Muslim” with the full name Ash-Shakur Nafi-Shahid Stevenson |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $10 million (as of 2025) |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Weight | Competes in the Lightweight division (~135 lbs) |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) |
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Newark, New Jersey, Stevenson was the eldest of nine siblings. His mother, Malikah Stevenson, and stepfather, Shahid Guyton, provided a foundation, but it was his grandfather, Wali Moses, who introduced him to boxing at the tender age of five. The sport quickly became more than a pastime; it was a refuge and a path forward.
Education for Stevenson extended beyond the classroom. While he attended public schools in Newark, much of his learning occurred in the gym, where discipline, strategy, and perseverance were daily lessons. His dedication paid off early, with notable achievements like winning the 2014 AIBA Youth World Championships and the Youth Olympics. These accomplishments set the stage for his silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he represented the United States in the bantamweight division.
Career and Rise to Fame
Turning professional in 2017, Stevenson signed with Top Rank and debuted against Edgar Brito, securing a technical decision victory. His ascent was swift; by October 2019, he clinched the WBO featherweight title after defeating Joet Gonzalez. This victory was particularly personal, given his past relationship with Gonzalez’s sister, adding an emotional layer to the bout.
Stevenson’s ambition didn’t stop there. He moved up to super featherweight, capturing the WBO title by defeating Jamel Herring in 2021. A subsequent unification bout against Oscar Valdez in 2022 saw Stevenson dominate, earning him the WBC and The Ring titles. However, a missed weight in his next fight led to him being stripped of his titles, a setback he took in stride.
In 2023, Stevenson transitioned to the lightweight division, securing the WBC title with a victory over Edwin De Los Santos. His strategic prowess and defensive skills have drawn comparisons to legends like Floyd Mayweather and Pernell Whitaker. Promoter Eddie Hearn even remarked on Stevenson’s potential to become a major figure in American sports, not just boxing .
Personal Life and Relationships
Beyond the ring, Stevenson’s life is anchored by his family. In 2022, after unifying the super featherweight titles, he proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Michelle Ragston, known professionally as Young Lyric. The couple welcomed their daughter, Leilani Asha Stevenson, in December 2021 .
Stevenson’s commitment to his roots is evident in his community involvement. He frequently visits local gyms in Newark, offering mentorship to aspiring boxers. Through his foundation, he supports initiatives focused on education, health, and personal development for children in urban communities .
Net Worth
As of 2025, Stevenson’s net worth is estimated between $3 million and $10 million. His earnings stem from fight purses, endorsements, and investments. Notably, he earned $3 million for his fight against Shuichiro Yoshino. Endorsement deals with brands like Reebok, PRIME Hydration, and SNAC System have further bolstered his income .
Stevenson has also invested in real estate, owning properties in New Jersey and California. Additionally, his apparel brand, Brick City Boxing, is valued at around $4 million, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit .
Awards and Achievements
2014: AIBA Youth World Championships Gold Medalist
2014: Youth Olympic Games Gold Medalist
2016: Olympic Silver Medalist in Bantamweight Boxing
2019: WBO Featherweight Champion
2021: WBO Super Featherweight Champion
2022: Unified WBC and The Ring Super Featherweight Titles
2023: WBC Lightweight Champion