Maxi Hughes (26-7-2, 5 KOs) suffered a tough fourth-round TKO defeat against William Zepeda (30-0, 26 KOs) during the IBF/WBA lightweight title clash on Saturday night at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. Despite the loss, Hughes didn’t offer any excuses for what happened.
In the ring, the 34-year-old Hughes admitted that a powerful body shot in the fourth round left him unable to withstand the relentless pace set by 27-year-old Zepeda, ultimately leading to his defeat. Zepeda showcased remarkable activity, throwing over 100 punches per round during the brief bout.
Hughes believed that he could have emerged victorious if he had managed to land his best shot, a feat he was unable to accomplish before Zepeda landed his decisive blow. According to Hughes, Zepeda’s victory was not solely due to his strength, as Zepeda had faced tougher opponents in the past.
Zepeda’s Key Advantage: Work Rate
“What really stood out to me was his work rate. I’ve encountered various styles and opponents similar to me. In the end, it all boils down to boxing,” remarked Maxi Hughes, reflecting on his defeat by fourth-round TKO against William Zepeda on Saturday night.
Initially, Hughes managed to keep pace with Zepeda’s work rate in the first round, but Zepeda surged ahead from the second round onwards, focusing on maintaining a relentless offensive with a flurry of punches.
It raises the question of what impact Hughes could have made if he had attempted to match Zepeda’s punch output. Post-fight, the visible marks on Zepeda’s face indicated the toll exacted by Hughes despite the brevity of the bout—Hughes simply struggled to match Zepeda’s pace.
“I could have landed a decisive blow, but he beat me to it with one shot before I could retaliate,” shared Hughes. “Get in a hit before receiving one,” Hughes highlighted as a potential strategy for improving his chances against Zepeda.
Acknowledgement of Zepeda and the Division
“I was trying to create some distance. I gave it my all, but fell just short. This weight class is packed with formidable adversaries. Tonight, he stands as the top contender, earning a shot at the title. Everyone here is tough competition. It’s all pretty even. His chances are just as good as anyone else’s,” Hughes commented on Zepeda.
“We’ll have to wait and see his next opponent, but he’s a formidable fighter. I hold him in high regard and tip my hat to him,” Hughes expressed his respect towards Zepeda.
