11/23/2024
Shakur Stevenson vs. William Zepeda is going the way of Dr. Dre’s Detox album.
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Photo Credit: Top Rank Boxing
Newly-crowned WBC Interim Lightweight Champion William Zepeda has sustained a hand injury in his controversial split-decision victory over Tevin Farmer. The injury, confirmed by Golden Boy president Eric Gomez in an interview with Elie Seckbach, has derailed the much-anticipated February 22 showdown with full WBC Lightweight Champion Shakur Stevenson.
When asked about the status of the fight, Gomez stated, “No, so Zepeda suffered an injury. He hurt his hand. We are looking to see when to reschedule that, but that’s the fight Zepeda wants.”
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Photo Credit: Golden Boy Promotions
The bout between Stevenson and Zepeda has been a source of confusion for months. The World Boxing Council (WBC) first ordered the lightweight title clash in July, setting an August 20 purse bid deadline. The deadline passed without a deal being finalized and no subsequent bout being ordered for Raymond Muratalla, the next available contender. The WBC refused to comment on the situation.
Stevenson publicly accused Zepeda of declining the fight, a claim that Golden Boy Promotions vehemently denied. Stevenson signed on to face former super featherweight champion Joe Cordina. That bout was ultimately cancelled after Stevenson suffered a hand injury.
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Photo Credit: Golden Boy Promotions
In an unexpected turn, the WBC sanctioned a vacant interim title fight between Zepeda and Tevin Farmer. The decision raised eyebrows. Moreover, the bout was approved as a ten-round contest, deviating from the standard twelve rounds for title fights. The WBC did not respond to Brunch Boxing’s request for clarification on the matter.
Now, with Zepeda sidelined indefinitely, Stevenson is left without a credible opponent for his next title defense. Sources indicate that Stevenson will likely take a stay-busy fight while waiting for Zepeda’s recovery. No timeline has been provided for Zepeda’s return to the ring.
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