Shakur Stevenson has expressed confidence in Lamont Roach’s ability to claim victory over William Zepeda in their ordered lightweight title fight. The WBC mandated the matchup for the vacant lightweight championship following Stevenson’s decision to move up in weight. Stevenson believes Roach’s inside fighting approach could be a key factor against Zepeda’s aggressive style.
Roach’s Fighting Style and Recent Form Examined
Lamont Roach (25-1-3, 10 KOs) is known for his precise timing and tactical shot selection, especially when fighting in close quarters. His style mirrors Stevenson’s defensive technique, although Roach tends to engage more willingly in exchanges once opponents press forward. Despite limited knockout power, Roach’s methodical style has resulted in several tightly contested bouts, as he focuses on outmaneuvering rather than overpowering opponents.
Recent bouts have raised questions among fans about Roach’s continued presence in title contention, as his last two fights ended in draws. Supporters debate how long he will receive such opportunities amid other fighters vying for title shots. Roach’s close matches include consecutive 12-round draws against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and Gervonta “Tank” Davis. In the fight against Cruz, Roach was knocked down and faced prolonged pressure, while against Davis, he endured relentless attacks but still managed to go the distance.
William Zepeda’s Profile and Previous Encounter with Stevenson
William Zepeda (33-1, 27 KOs), currently the WBC’s top-ranked lightweight, enters the title contest after suffering the first defeat of his career. His loss came against Stevenson last July, in a fight many viewed as more competitive than the official scorecards indicated. Zepeda applied consistent body pressure throughout that match but struggled to sway the judges in his favor.
WBC Orders Title Fight and Negotiations Underway
The WBC has officially mandated Zepeda and Roach, ranked first and second respectively, to battle for the vacant lightweight title. This vacancy resulted from Stevenson’s move to challenge Teofimo Lopez for the WBO light welterweight belt on January 31, 2026. Notably, interim champion Jadier Herrera was not included in the selection to fight for the vacant title, a decision that has surprised some observers expecting Herrera’s prioritization.
Currently, contract talks between Zepeda and Roach are ongoing, with the fight anticipated to occur during the summer of 2026 if an agreement is reached.
Stevenson’s View on How the Fight Could Unfold
Having already faced Zepeda, Stevenson offers an informed perspective on the matchup. He highlighted Roach’s close-range precision as a potential challenge to Zepeda’s typical pressure-heavy approach, suggesting that Roach’s in-pocket shot selection might disrupt Zepeda’s rhythm.
“I’m leaning toward Lamont [Roach] because of his in-pocket selection, and I think he’s a good fighter,”
Shakur said via Ring X.
Whether Roach can maintain his accuracy and composure against Zepeda’s relentless pressure will likely decide who emerges as the new WBC lightweight champion. The fight promises to test both fighters’ strengths and endurance in pursuit of world title glory.
