Shakur Stevenson has offered his prediction for Lamont Roach vs William Zepeda, which he believes will end in one-sided fashion on August 1.
The American successfully defended his WBC lightweight title against Zepeda in July 2025, defusing the Mexican’s relentless aggression as he claimed a unanimous decision victory.
Stevenson then moved up to 140lbs and dethroned Teofimo Lopez in January, becoming a four-weight world champion, but was subsequently stripped of his WBC belt at 135lbs.
This has therefore allowed leading contenders Roach and Zepeda to collide for the vacant title, headlining a Golden Boy card in Las Vegas next month.
While Zepeda has not fought since his defeat to Stevenson, Roach is coming off an enthralling draw with Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, who he faced at 140lbs in December.
On this occasion, a draw was widely accepted as the fairest result but, earlier that year, ‘The Reaper’ was considered incredibly unfortunate not to emerge victorious against Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis.
Despite producing the performance of his life, Roach was forced to digest an egregious draw after being denied a clear 10-8 round in the ninth frame, which would have seen him claim Davis’ WBA title.
Now, though, the 30-year-old has the opportunity to secure a different piece of lightweight jewellery, with Stevenson delivering his prediction via social media.
“I got Roach over Zepeda ngl [not going to lie] and I lowkey got it BTA [belt to a**].”
I got Roach over Zepeda ngl and I lowkey got it BTA
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) July 5, 2026
While there were moments of competitive action in his clash with Zepeda, Stevenson was largely in control and perhaps believes that Roach, another skilled technician, can orchestrate a similar outcome.
