Lamont Roach Wants To ‘Punish’ William Zepeda In WBC Title Fight

Former world champion says he wants to leave no doubt when the vacant WBC lightweight title goes on the line

Lamont Roach Jr. says he is no longer interested in leaving fights in the hands of the judges. Ahead of his August 1 clash with William Zepeda for the vacant WBC lightweight title, Roach says his goal is to break Zepeda down and make the outcome undeniable.

Roach (25-1-3, 10 KOs) has built his career on timing, technique, and composure under pressure, but the former WBA super featherweight champion believes it’s time to adopt a more punishing approach inside the ring.

“I think for sure, we have a great game plan. Just executing it throughout the rounds, and just staying consistent,” Roach said to InsideRingShow while discussing his upcoming clash with Zepeda.

“Just keeping myself together on all cues at each point in every round so I can dominate him and eventually break him down and leave no doubt in the judges’ hands. But if there’s going to be doubt, if any, that the opponent is going to get up or not. That’s the only doubt I really want to worry about.”

“I want to start punishing these guys. We’re taking it to the next level in training camp,” said Roach.

Roach has gone the distance in six of his last eight contests, including his 12-round majority draws against Gervonta Davis in March 2025 and Isaac Cruz in December 2025. Lamont has gone the distance in six of his last eight contests, including his disputed majority draw against Gervonta Davis in March 2025.

Standing across from him on August 1 will be one of the sport’s busiest offensive fighters. Zepeda (33-1, 27 KOs) is known for his relentless pressure and high punch output, forcing opponents into uncomfortable exchanges from the opening bell.

The vacant WBC lightweight title will be on the line when Roach and Zepeda meet on August 1, with the winner emerging as one of the division’s newest titleholders.

Lamont Roach Jr. is confident in the game plan ahead of William Zepeda 💪#InsideTheRing | Latest episode available on DAZN 📺 pic.twitter.com/aM83BexZ2i

— InsideRingShow (@InsideRingShow) June 10, 2026