William Zepeda may have some reasons to be concerned. His upcoming opponent, Shakur Stevenson, is preparing to bring everything he’s got. For Stevenson, only a dominant win will solidify his claim to lightweight supremacy. Fully aware of the stakes, Stevenson seems determined to unleash every weapon in his arsenal to deliver a decisive blow to the Mexican powerhouse. In a few carefully chosen words, the Newark native hinted at a readiness that may run deeper than it appears.

After a series of delays and negotiations, the long-anticipated bout between Shakur Stevenson and William Zepeda was officially announced last month. On July 12, Stevenson-Zepeda will join Edgar Berlanga and Hamzah Sheeraz to co-headline a DAZN-streamed Ring card in New York City. Stevenson enters the fight riding high after a ninth-round TKO victory over Josh Padley. Zepeda, for his part, silenced lingering doubts with a strong showing and a definitive win over Tevin Farmer in their March rematch.

Shakur Stevenson: Bring it on!!

“Camp ain’t even started and I feel like I’m in shape already,” Stevenson remarked confidently. For fans, it’s a promising sign. His upbeat attitude and readiness suggest Stevenson’s mentally locked in and physically ahead of schedule.

Following the announcement of their fight, both Shakur Stevenson and William Zepeda faced off at the Times Square ‘Fatal Fury.‘ Interestingly, this match-up was originally eyed for February. However, shortly after Zepeda’s first fight with Farmer, his team revealed a hand injury. As a result, the matchup didn’t take off. That setback is now in the rearview mirror, and both fighters seem ready to deliver fireworks.

Still, some observers might raise an eyebrow. In professional boxing, a fight camp typically begins 8 to 12 weeks ahead of the bout. Of course it depends on the athlete’s condition, experience, and the magnitude of the event. With the Stevenson-Zepeda clash now about eight weeks away, one would expect camp to be in full swing. Stevenson’s claim that he hasn’t yet begun might raise concerns. But then it also underscores his confidence in his current form.

For one, Stevenson isn’t the only one who believes he has the tools to rule the lightweight division. Former world champion and boxing analyst Paulie Malignaggi once said, “I know Gervonta is a more exciting fighter, I know he’s more of a fan favorite, but Shakur Stevenson’s effectiveness makes him the best fighter between 135 pounds and 140. Nobody beats him between those weight classes.”

But danger still lurks in the other corner

However, William Zepeda is no pushover. With an eye-popping 82% knockout rate, the 28-year-old Mexican southpaw is known for his aggressive style and fight-ending power. The Farmer bouts did reveal a few vulnerabilities. But it would be a mistake to assume Zepeda’s offensive edge has dulled.

Statistically and stylistically, Zepeda may well be the toughest opponent Stevenson has faced in his professional career to date. Stevenson is often praised for his ring IQ, movement, and defensive mastery. However, Zepeda’s relentless pressure will test all of those skills. Whether Stevenson’s superior footwork and tactical sharpness can neutralize Zepeda’s volume and power remains one of the fight’s most intriguing questions.

For both fighters, this bout is crucial. But the stakes may be higher for Stevenson. With ambitions of a super-fight against Gervonta Davis, nothing short of a dominant victory will keep that dream alive. A close win might not be enough. Stevenson needs a statement.

What’s your take on Stevenson vs. Zepeda? Do you see it as a chess match or a war?