Shakur Stevenson, the undefeated lightweight champion boasting an impressive record of 22 wins (10 by knockout), recently underwent hand surgery that has raised concerns about his immediate future in the ring. Oscar De La Hoya, the head of Golden Boy Promotions, has publicly expressed his well-wishes for Stevenson’s recovery, emphasizing the importance of the fighter being at optimum health when he steps into the ring to defend his WBC lightweight title against William Zepeda. Scheduled for the first quarter of 2025, this matchup carries significant weight for both boxers and their respective legacies.
William Zepeda, currently holding an outstanding record of 31-0 with 27 KOs, is known for his relentless fighting style. In his previous bout against Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz, Zepeda showcased his exceptional stamina and output by landing a staggering 1,244 punches over the course of 12 rounds. Such statistics underline the difficult challenge Stevenson faces, considering his recent hand issues. If Stevenson’s hands remain an obstacle, Zepeda’s high volume of punches could prove to be too much for him to handle.
Yet, before the highly anticipated confrontation with Stevenson, Zepeda must first focus on his upcoming bout against Tevin Farmer, scheduled for November 16, 2023, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This match is critical for Zepeda as it serves as a precursor to his potential title shot against Stevenson. Farmer, a former IBF super featherweight champion with a record of 33 wins (8 by KO) and 6 losses, is expected to struggle against Zepeda’s relentless pressure and high punch output.
The boxing community eagerly anticipates Zepeda vs. Farmer, not only as an exciting match on the undercard of the Ramirez-Billiam-Smith main event but as a step toward Zepeda securing his title shot. De La Hoya emphasized to DAZN that every fight on the card can stand as a main event in its own right, reflecting the significance of each matchup on this date.
Commentator Chris Mannix echoed the sentiments about Zepeda’s aspirations, noting that the logistics of scheduling are crucial. If Zepeda emerges victorious on November 16, the focus will shift to the showdown with Stevenson, contingent upon Stevenson’s recovery timeline. De La Hoya has acknowledged Stevenson’s talent; however, there’s a pressing urgency for the champion to ensure he is fully fit and ready before any title defense.
Stevenson’s situation presents a precarious dilemma; if recovery does not go as planned, not only would the fight with Zepeda be at risk, but it may also extend the timeline for his return to the ring. For boxing fans and analysts alike, the outcome of Zepeda’s bout against Farmer may well set in motion a thrilling year in boxing if both fighters can meet in the ring unscathed and at their best. Will Stevenson overcome his hand injury and rise to the challenge, or will Zepeda seize the moment and stake his claim as a top-tier lightweight? The answers are on the horizon as 2025 approaches.