The boxing world is buzzing with talks of a potential showdown between WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson and #1 ranked contender William Zepeda. The fight, if made, is expected to take place in October and could be featured on the Dmitry Bivol vs. Artur Beterbiev card on October 12th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Stevenson, with a record of 22-0 and 10 knockouts, has expressed his desire for a big fight after facing a few smaller opponents, and Zepeda, with an impressive record of 31-0 and 27 KOs, presents an exciting opportunity for him.
William Zepeda, known for his pressure fighting style, poses a significant threat to Stevenson, who is criticized for his lack of power. Zepeda’s last four opponents – Giovanni Cabrera, Maxi Hughes, Mercito Gesta, and Jaime Arboleda – all fell victim to his relentless aggression. A loss to Zepeda could derail Stevenson’s aspirations of securing high-profile bouts against the likes of Gervonta Davis and Vasily Lomachenko. It may force him to reevaluate his position in the lightweight division and potentially move back down to 130 pounds to avoid becoming prey for the rising stars in the 135-pound division.
Stevenson’s defensive, movement-based fighting style has been a double-edged sword for him. While it has helped him remain undefeated, it has also alienated fans and potential opponents who are unwilling to engage in a chasing game for 12 rounds. If Stevenson agrees to face Zepeda, he will need to display more offensive prowess than he has in his recent outings. Lackluster performances against Edwin De Los Santos and Artem Harutyunyan have raised doubts about Stevenson’s ability to deliver exciting fights that resonate with audiences.
Despite talks of potential matchups with Gervonta Davis and Vasily Lomachenko, Stevenson’s inability to secure these fights highlights the challenges he faces in gaining recognition and respect in the boxing world. The reluctance of fighters like Davis to face Stevenson suggests a lack of interest or confidence in the matchup, further diminishing Stevenson’s standing in the sport. His recent performances have done little to enhance his popularity, leaving him in a precarious position as he navigates his career in a highly competitive and unforgiving industry.
The proposed fight between Shakur Stevenson and William Zepeda presents a critical moment in Stevenson’s career. A victory over Zepeda could elevate his status and open doors to more significant opportunities in the lightweight division. However, a loss would not only tarnish his unbeaten record but also force him to contemplate his future in the sport. Stevenson’s ability to adapt his fighting style, showcase his offensive skills, and capture the attention of fans and opponents will ultimately determine the trajectory of his career in the coming months.