William Zepeda explains injury that forced him out of Shakur Stevenson chance

WIlliam Zepeda likely wishes he’d not fought crafty veteran Tevin Farmer in Saudi Arabia on November 16. Dropped in round four before getting a contentious victory on the cards after 10, Zepeda’s reputation wasn’t the only thing that took a hit.

With a February 22, 2025, date with Shakur Stevenson all but locked in, the 32-0 (27 KOs) Zepeda also left the Middle East with a hand injury which has forced him to withdraw from his shot at the WBC lightweight champion.

Beneath an image of him in a sling, 28-year-old Zepeda, a southpaw, posted on social media: “After our last match [versus Farmer], we left with an injury to out left hand. This week we were preparing to return to the gym soon, but for medical evaluation they recommended 6 to 8 weeks rest for better recovery. 

“For us it is important to have this small break to benefit our career, we know that this 2025 great opportunities are coming and we have to be 100 per cent. After this recovery period we would like to return at the end of March.”