Shakur Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs) confirmed his commitment to defending his title while delivering thrilling performances. Although he didn’t secure a knockout against William Zepeda (33-1, 27 KOs), the WBC lightweight champion showcased a masterclass in boxing on Saturday night, winning a unanimous decision at Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens. Two judges scored the fight 118-110 in favor of Stevenson, and the third had it 119-109.
“He pushed me to a higher level,” Stevenson said about Zepeda. Turki Arashik promoted Stevenson to the co-main event, insisting the bout wouldn’t be a “Tom & Jerry Battle.” Stevenson playfully responded by saying in the comics, Jerry always outsmarted Tom by setting traps.
Stevenson dominated the 12-round fight, absorbing a powerful punch from Zepeda on his arms and shoulders while countering effectively with body jabs, uppercuts, and precise combinations that troubled Zepeda. Although Zepeda landed a hard right hand in the third round, it was a rare moment of success as Stevenson controlled most of the bout.
Compubox stats showed Stevenson landed 295 punches out of 565 thrown (52.2%), while Zepeda landed 272 out of 979 (27.8%). Stevenson connected with 96 jabs and 199 power punches, scoring with 46.4% and 55.6% accuracy respectively, compared to Zepeda’s 24.9% jab and 30.5% power punch rates.
“At times I had to get off the ropes and choose my shots carefully to secure the win,” Stevenson said. “Zepeda is a tough opponent. I gave him a lot tonight and I appreciate the support.”
Zepeda’s relentless punching allowed Stevenson to counter effectively. By the later rounds, Zepeda slowed, enabling Stevenson to lead the fight using sharp hooks to the head and body. Though Zepeda was never seriously hurt, he was outmatched by the precise and strategic boxing of the Newark, New Jersey fighter.
Stevenson’s display confirmed he has the qualities to be a main-event star, showing excitement when needed and decisively proving his skill against a credible challenger. “I told everyone what it takes to get the job done,” he said. “I have a dog inside me – I’m not a puppy or a poodle, I’m a tough fighter.”
Fan Take: Stevenson’s dominant win highlights his rising status as a top lightweight and potential superstar in boxing. Fans should watch closely, as his skill and charisma could elevate the sport and set new standards for exciting title defenses.
