The highly anticipated clash between undefeated lightweight contender William Zepeda and seasoned veteran Mercito Gesta took place on Saturday night in Commerce, California. As the main event of a Golden Boy card broadcast live on DAZN, this twelve-round bout carried significant implications for both fighters. Zepeda, known for his devastating knockout power, entered the ring with an unblemished record of 28-0 at the age of 27. Gesta, a popular Filipino boxer, aimed to build on his surprising win over Joseph Diaz in his previous fight. The question loomed: could the 35-year-old Gesta stage another upset against the formidable Zepeda?
From the opening bell, it was evident that both fighters were eager to impose their strategies. Gesta opted for an in-and-out approach, while Zepeda relied on his aggression and an effective jab. In the second round, the combatants took the fight to close quarters, engaging in fierce, high-energy infighting. Despite Gesta’s resilience, it was Zepeda’s punishing body shots that appeared to inflict more damage. The onslaught continued in the third round, with Zepeda launching a relentless attack that pushed Gesta to his limits. At this point, observers began to question whether Gesta could withstand the onslaught or if Zepeda’s stamina would wane.
Entering the fourth round, Zepeda maintained his power-punching strategy, relentlessly targeting Gesta. Despite being bloodied in the previous round, Gesta valiantly attempted to evade Zepeda’s onslaught. This proved to be an insurmountable task, as Zepeda’s aggression and power shots simply overwhelmed him. As the fight progressed into the sixth round, Gesta’s corner made the wise decision to intervene and stop the contest. Credit must be given to Gesta for displaying remarkable courage and endurance, as he managed to stay on his feet despite the unrelenting punishment. However, the night undoubtedly belonged to the impressive Zepeda.
In the aftermath of his triumph, Zepeda wasted no time announcing his readiness to face Devin Haney, one of the division’s top talents. A clash between Zepeda and Haney would undoubtedly be a fascinating matchup, pitting Zepeda’s relentless aggression against Haney’s slick and polished boxing skills. Yet, if Haney were to move on from the lightweight division, Zepeda still has a plethora of formidable opponents awaiting him. Notable names such as Teofimo Lopez, George Kambosos, Vasyl Lomachenko, and Shakur Stevenson all present exciting challenges for Zepeda to consider. The truth is that Zepeda possesses the skills and tenacity to trouble each and every one of these elite fighters, solidifying his place among the division’s upper echelon.
The explosive performance by William Zepeda against Mercito Gesta underscores his emergence as a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. With an unblemished record and a relentless fighting style, Zepeda has established himself as a formidable contender. While a potential showdown with Devin Haney looms on the horizon, Zepeda’s path to greatness is paved with numerous other enticing matchups. The lightweight division remains stacked with talent, and after Saturday night’s triumph, Zepeda has rightfully earned his place among the elite. It is now time for the boxing world to take notice of this rising star and be prepared for the fireworks he brings to the ring.
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