Promoter Oscar De La Hoya is pushing for his boxer William Zepeda to get a chance at a world title in the lightweight category following Zepeda’s impressive win by knockout in the third round against Giovanni Cabrera. De La Hoya has not specified the champion he wants Zepeda to go up against in the 135-pound division, but Shakur Stevenson appears to be the most feasible choice.
Zepeda, with an impressive record of 31 wins out of 31 fights, including 27 knockouts, holds the top spot in all four major boxing organizations at 135 pounds and has earned a shot at the title. Given the current scenario in the lightweight division, Stevenson, who currently holds the WBC belt in the same weight class, stands out as the only available champion for Zepeda to challenge.
Stevenson, however, seems more inclined towards unifying titles with other champions such as Tank Davis and Vasily Lomachenko, as these matches present profitable opportunities and enhance his reputation in the sport. If the World Boxing Council mandates Stevenson to defend his title against Zepeda, he might have to agree to the fight unless he opts for a unification match instead.
In summary, Zepeda’s journey towards claiming the lightweight championship appears to go through Stevenson, who currently seems like the most viable option for a title shot in the immediate future.
