Technical boxing is something vital to the highest level and Zepeda proved a better boxer than many thought he could be.
Going into the fight most thought Lamont Roach to be the technically more proficient boxer of the boxers tonight in boxing in Vegas.
Not the case.
Zepeda got the UD points victory and displayed excellent boxing ability:
- Threw overwhelming volume (884 total punches, 218 landed)
- Applied calculated pressure, not just wild charging
- Landed heavy body shots early that slowed Roach’s legs
- Used footwork to step back after exchanges, avoiding counters
- Kept Roach on the outside using height and reach
- Dictated the pace and never let Roach settle into rhythm
- Neutralized Roach’s counterpunching by not staying in range
- Increased pressure in championship rounds as Roach faded
- Won wide unanimous decision (117-111, 117-111, 118-110)
It had been said not to underestimate William Zepeda coming into the fight.
That proved to be spot on and 100 per cent correct.
He moves into our pound for pound boxing rankings after that.
Surely one of Mexico’s best boxers on the planet currently also.
Lamont Roach must regroup.
Check out our latest boxing news.