Lamont Roach Jr vs William Zepeda Fight Delayed

WBC lightweight title bout moves off June 20 as talks continue for July or August slot

Lamont Roach Jr.’s WBC lightweight title fight with William Zepeda is no longer expected to take place on June 20. A new date in July or August is now being discussed as negotiations continue.

Abraham Gonzalez reported the change, noting that the previously discussed June slot is “unlikely” as talks continue around scheduling. The bout had been ordered by WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán for the vacant 135-pound title, pairing Roach’s experience against Zepeda’s pressure-heavy style.

No official reason has been confirmed for the delay, but timing issues around venues and broadcast windows are often factors in late movement like this. The fight remains in negotiation, and both sides are still expected to move forward once a new date is finalized.

The shift adds uncertainty to Roach’s immediate plans after he had already spoken about potential fights beyond Zepeda, including names at 135 and above. Zepeda, meanwhile, has been waiting on a title opportunity after staying active against lower-tier opposition.

A July or August placement would push the fight deeper into the summer schedule, where it could compete with other major cards for attention depending on placement and platform.

Roach’s last two outings against Gervonta Davis in March 2025 and Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in December 2025 both ended in majority draws. Entering a vacant world title fight against a high-volume machine like William Zepeda without a victory in over a year is a rare occurrence in the modern era.

For William Zepeda, this delay is just another hurdle in a career defined by being one of the most avoided man in the division. If he has to wait until August to finally touch a world title, the pressure to not just win, but to dominate a winless Roach, becomes enormous.

For now, the Roach vs. Zepeda fight is still alive, but the date is not.

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