WBC Orders Zepeda vs. Roach

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Mar 5, 2026 3:11 AM ET

Following the sanctioning body’s decision to strip Shakur Stevenson of his 135-pound crown last month, WBC officials have ordered a title clash between William Zepeda and Lamont Roach.

This transition comes on the heels of Stevenson’s successful jump to junior welterweight, where he solidified his status by defeating Teofimo Lopez in January. For Zepeda, this represents a shot at redemption; despite falling to Stevenson in July 2025, he was propelled to the WBC’s top spot once the title became vacant.

Roach enters the bout following a string of stalemates, having fought to back-to-back majority draws against Gervonta Davis in May 2025 and Isaac Cruz in December. Interestingly, the move sidelines WBC Interim Champion Ricardo Núñez, who—under standard protocols—would usually be the first in line to be elevated or fight for the full championship.

Facebook: BoxingScene.com

“They came to the WBC with a proposal to have No. 1 and No. 2 (fight for the title). They had reached a deal to fight and they came (with) the proposal with the WBC blessing it for the title. “We did not order the fight. They came to the WBC with a proposal. So did many other others. That’s why we went to a vote (of the WBC Board of Governors) and it was ruled that this is the highest prestige, highest interest fight and we believe it’s very good for the sport.

“We also have a few other petitions from promoters who wanted to contest for the vacant title so we did proceed with No. 1 and No. 2. The winner fights Herrera or the winner of Herrera if he defends (the interim title) against somebody else,” Sulaiman said

The Approach

Zepeda knows he cannot afford to let a technical fighter dictate the pace. Look for Zepeda to target the body early, using his left hook to “dig” into Roach’s ribs. By punishing the midsection, he aims to take the legs away from a mobile fighter like Roach, eventually trapping him against the ropes where Zepeda can unload combinations.

Roach won’t try to out-throw Zepeda; he will try to out-land him with precision. Roach will likely utilize a “lateral movement and check-hook” approach. He needs to keep the center of the ring and use Zepeda’s forward momentum against him. By timing Zepeda’s entries, Roach can land short, sharp counters that disrupt the Mexican’s rhythm. Expect Roach to use a stiff jab and frequent clinches to reset the action.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: