Oscar De La Hoya’s excitement was palpable as he discussed William Zepeda’s upcoming bout against Tevin Farmer on November 16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The fight, featured on the “Latino Night” card broadcast by DAZN and promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, is more than just a matchup – it’s a test that could define Zepeda’s readiness for a title fight against Shakur Stevenson.
De La Hoya acknowledged the challenge ahead for Zepeda, the undefeated 28-year-old from San Mateo Atenco, Mexico, with a record of 31-0 (27 KOs). Zepeda, known for his relentless style, is on a four-fight knockout streak, including stoppages of Giovanni Cabrera and Maxi Hughes in 2024. He is aiming to end his year with a statement. However, De La Hoya made it clear that Zepeda shouldn’t underestimate Farmer.
“I’m actually excited about it,” De La Hoya said on DAZN. “William Zepeda is going to be tested. Don’t count out Farmer. He’s a sleeper, with all the experience in the world.”
De La Hoya, the Golden Boy Promotions CEO, underscored the similarities between Farmer and lightweight titleholder Shakur Stevenson and added: “Farmer’s style – elusive, side-to-side movement, that slippery approach – will be difficult for Zepeda. He boxes like a Stevenson.
“William is relentless; he throws 1,000 punches a fight. The question is, can Farmer keep him away? We’ll see.”
For Farmer, 34, from Philadelphia and a former junior lightweight titleholder, the path has been anything but typical. Entering with a 33-6-1 (8 KOs) record, his career took a turn after losing his title to Joseph Diaz Jnr in January 2020. Wins in three regional bouts between 2023 and 2024 set him up for a fight against Raymond Muratalla, where he initially led but was overpowered in the later rounds, losing a unanimous decision.
When asked about a fight between Zepeda and Stevenson, De La Hoya said: “It all depends on logistics. We want the fight. Zepeda wants the fight. It’s all about the details. Shakur is a tremendous fighter, a beautiful boxer. You’re as good as your last fight, and I hope his hand heals well. I wish him the best recovery because I want him at 100 per cent when he faces William Zepeda.”