Shakur Stevenson will face William Zepeda in Riyadh on February 22. The duel in the small ring will be a tactical touchstone for the WBC champion.
Shakur Stevenson, currently number 3 in the BOXSPORT world lightweight rankings, will defend his WBC title on February 22 in Riyadh. His opponent is William Zepeda, BOXSPORT number four and an unbeaten puncher with 27 knockout victories. A special feature of the duel: it will take place in a particularly small ring. This is a request from Zepeda’s promoter Oscar De La Hoya. He wants to prevent Stevenson from using his technical style with a lot of movement. The champion is not fazed by this: “The ring size doesn’t matter to me,” says Stevenson confidently.
Shakur Stevenson remains optimistic despite hand surgery
Shakur Stevenson recently had to take a break due to a hand operation. His fight against Joe Cordina was canceled in October. Nevertheless, he is determined to fight Zepeda. Stevenson, who has already been successful in three weight classes, sees himself at an advantage despite the special circumstances. “I will win, no matter which ring,” says the 27-year-old. However, critics believe that he has reached his limits in the new weight class.
William Zepeda: The knockout artist from Mexico
William Zepeda brings impressive numbers to the ring. With 31 wins, 27 of them by knockout, the Mexican has an impressive record. But first he has to win against Tevin Farmer in Riyadh on November 16. Only then will he face Stevenson. Zepeda is regarded as a dangerous opponent who can also exert pressure in tight spaces. “I don’t need a big ring to beat him,” says Zepeda.
The discussion about ring size
The demand for a small ring is causing discussion. Fans and experts doubt that Stevenson can be stopped. One user writes on social networks: “The ring size doesn’t matter. He will still win.” Nevertheless, the dimensions of Riyadh’s roped area could be a decisive factor, as they influence the fighting style of both boxers. For Zepeda, the confined space is an advantage, for Stevenson an additional challenge.
Conclusion: Exciting battle with many question marks
Shakur Stevenson against William Zepeda promises to be a tactically and technically interesting duel. The conditions are unusual, the tension high. The fight in Riyadh will show whether Stevenson can prove his class even under adverse conditions. For Zepeda, it is a chance to prove himself at the highest level.
Text: Andreas Ohlberger
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