In boxing, it’s often said, style makes fights. If one needs an example, then look no further. Come July 12, at the Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York, Shakur Stevenson will face William Zepeda for his third title defense. The clash between a technical virtuoso and a marauding pressure fighter is increasingly becoming the talk of the town. Speculation about the fight’s outcome is a major topic in mainstream discourse.

As of now, most of the talks exhibit familiar patterns. Following the great boxing traditions of his country, Zepeda will likely take the battle to the enemy’s court. In contrast, Stevenson, an Olympic silver medalist, will unveil his full technical know-how to deflect and move, blunting the Mexican’s swarming attack. So as the discussions continued, an interesting incident took place. It featured a lighthearted banter between Stevenson and Zepeda’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya. Though bellowing with laughter, to a few, however, it looked like De La Hoya revealed the secrets to breach Fort Zepeda!

Oscar De La Hoya to Shakur Stevenson: I have a little something that might be of value to you

The screenshot of the DMs between De La Hoya and Stevenson was shared through an Instagram post. Expressing both surprise and laughter at the exchange, the caption read, “Oscar De La Hoya leaks Zepeda’s game plan vs. Shakur.” So what exactly did the Golden Boy divulge? You see, De La Hoya was laughing when he said, “Just aim to the chest.” Shakur Stevenson responded in toto. Cracking up, he told the former champion-turned-promoter to “😂😂 chill Oscar.” In the background, video of Stevenson’s recent visit to a gym where he interacted with young boxing enthusiasts was playing.

To set the record straight, from a mere screenshot, it is difficult to conclude whether De La Hoya is actually sharing some secrets with Stevenson. The bigger question is, why would he jeopardize and ruin his own fighter’s match and record? Given the overall vibe of the messages, the caption, and the post, it’s fair to assume it’s just a joke.

The chat actually featured in a Ring Magazine post. As the video of Stevenson sparring with youngsters in a Cleveland gym went viral, De La Hoya joined a few fans for a cheeky back-and-forth. However, it’s tough to say whether the former six-division champion’s jibe was aimed at Stevenson or his sparring partners.

But putting aside the witty remarks, one is indeed bothered. William Zepeda will be Shakur Stevenson’s biggest test thus far.

Is that even needed?

He has faced some big names in the past. But none match Zepeda’s firepower and zeal. With nearly 82% of his 33 wins secured through early stoppage, the Mexican-born southpaw knows he has the best chance to become a world champion. Revealing that he’s coming for a dogfight, during an interview he said, “I don’t care if I get knocked out.”

Then Zepeda’s recent fights against Tevin Farmer reveal a lot for Shakur Stevenson to draw a blueprint. Zepeda emerged victorious in both. However, with the first fight ending in a split decision and the second one faring slightly better at a majority decision, Farmer was able to lay bare a few chinks in Zepeda’s armor. That’s enough study material for Stevenson to gauge his upcoming opponent’s weakness to exploit when they meet.

So why would he even approach Zepeda’s promoter to get the secret sauce?

What about you? What do you think Oscar De La Hoya and Shakur Stevenson were discussing?