Shakur Stevenson kept his perfect record intact on Saturday night, outboxing the hard-hitting William Zepeda at Louis Armstrong Stadium. The WBC lightweight champion from Newark, New Jersey, scored a wide unanimous decision victory over his previously unbeaten Mexican opponent.
Stevenson, now 24-0, put on a masterclass against Zepeda, who came into the fight with an impressive 33-0 record including 27 knockouts. The win marks Stevenson's best performance to date, cementing his status as one of boxing's rising stars.
Despite his dominant victory, Stevenson didn't walk away unscathed. At the post-fight press conference, he opened up about the power behind Zepeda's punches.
"He got a little thump, he got 27 knockouts man, we at the highest level of boxing right now so he got a little thump, he got like thudding power, it ain't like one punch kill you power, it's like thudding when he punch you over and over and over you can feel it so he's tough."
Stevenson admitted to taking over 200 shots during the fight - the most he's absorbed in his professional career. The champion acknowledged the toll of the bout, suggesting he might return to a more mobile style in future fights.
"Too much punishment,"Stevenson said, indicating he'd prefer to avoid similar wars going forward.
With this impressive win under his belt, Stevenson has his sights set on a showdown with Gervonta Davis. However, that matchup faces some hurdles. Davis recently got arrested and has a fight lined up with Lamont Roach Jr.
As Stevenson waits for his next big challenge, fans can relive his masterful performance against Zepeda. The fight showcased why many consider Stevenson one of the most skilled boxers of his generation. His ability to outmaneuver and outpoint a dangerous puncher like Zepeda proves he's ready for anyone in the lightweight division.
For a full breakdown of the fight, including round-by-round analysis, check out ESPN's comprehensive coverage.
