Shakur Stevenson vs. William Zepeda: Live Updates and Fight Analysis

In a highly anticipated matchup, Shakur Stevenson will defend his WBC lightweight title against William Zepeda on Saturday, July 13, 2025, at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens, New York. The fight, which is set to begin at 5 p.m. ET, serves as the chief support to the main event featuring Edgar Berlanga facing Hamzah Sheeraz in a 12-round super middleweight bout.

Stevenson, an undefeated champion with a record of 23 wins and 11 knockouts, is coming off a dominant performance where he secured a ninth-round TKO victory against Josh Padley in February 2025. In that bout, Stevenson showcased his power by dropping Padley three times with body shots during the ninth round, solidifying his reputation as one of the top fighters in the lightweight division.

William Zepeda, also unbeaten with a record of 33 wins and 27 knockouts, is the WBC interim titlist. He has demonstrated his prowess in the ring with back-to-back decision victories over former junior lightweight champion Tevin Farmer, winning a split decision in November 2024 and a majority decision in March 2025. Notably, Zepeda has achieved 18 knockouts in his last 20 fights, indicating his striking ability.

The significance of this fight transcends mere titles, as both fighters represent the future of boxing's lightweight division. According to Dr. Samuel Rowe, a boxing analyst and Professor of Sports Management at Columbia University, “This bout could redefine their careers and pave the way for future matchups against top contenders.” The stakes are high, not just for Stevenson and Zepeda, but for the overall landscape of the sport.

The buildup to the fight has been marked by media engagement and fan interest, as Stevenson’s technical skill set and Zepeda’s punching power create an intriguing dynamic. Andreas Hale, a combat sports reporter for ESPN, noted, “The casual boxing fan is becoming more engaged with Stevenson’s style, and this fight could be a pivotal moment for him to build a broader fan base.”

Beyond the ring, this event is part of a larger trend in boxing, where promotional companies are increasingly focusing on the lightweight division, historically one of the most competitive. The fight is expected to draw significant viewership numbers, particularly on DAZN PPV, highlighting the commercial viability of boxing in contemporary sports culture.

As fight night approaches, the anticipation continues to build. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Stevenson can maintain his undefeated streak against a formidable opponent in Zepeda. Both fighters have expressed confidence in their training and preparation, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.

The outcomes of such high-stakes matches not only affect the fighters’ records and reputations but also have implications for their potential matchups in the future. As highlighted by Dr. Emily Carter, a sports economist at the University of Southern California, “The financial ramifications of this fight could influence future promotional deals and fighter contracts in the sport.”

In conclusion, the Stevenson-Zepeda bout is more than just a title defense; it represents a pivotal moment in boxing's lightweight division. As fans prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating evening of boxing, the implications for both fighters, their careers, and the sport at large remain significant.