Abel Sanchez believes William Zepeda has moved beyond a fight with Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. Following Zepeda’s dominant victory over Lamont Roach Jr., the veteran trainer argued the newly crowned WBC lightweight champion should pursue more technically accomplished opponents instead.
The interviewer pitched Pitbull Cruz as the ideal next opponent, arguing the matchup would sell out arenas in Los Angeles, Phoenix and Texas because of the fighters’ aggressive styles and large Mexican fan bases. Sanchez saw it differently.
“I wouldn’t want to see that fight,” Sanchez said to Fight Hub TV.
When Villegas countered that it would produce a thrilling battle, the veteran trainer doubled down.
“I think Zepeda’s way beyond that.”
Sanchez’s comments reflected how highly he rated Zepeda’s victory over Roach. The new champion controlled the bout with constant pressure, disciplined offense and clear physical advantages to earn a unanimous decision and capture the WBC lightweight title. Last December, Cruz fought Roach to a draw, making Zepeda’s one-sided performance another point in favor of the newly crowned champion.
Sanchez explained that his objection had little to do with entertainment value. He enjoys aggressive fights, but prefers to watch skilled technicians rather than wild exchanges.
“I like action fights with technique. I don’t like action fights with just bolo punches and throwing from everywhere,” Sanchez said.
Instead, Sanchez identified WBO lightweight champion Abdullah Mason as his preferred next opponent. He also mentioned Oscar Duarte and Lindolfo Delgado as stronger stylistic matches, believing those contests would provide a better measure of Zepeda’s ability than a meeting with Cruz.
Sanchez views Zepeda’s victory over Roach as evidence that the new champion has moved into a different tier of competition, making a fight with Pitbull Cruz far less appealing than many fans believe.
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Last Updated on 2026/08/05 at 5:19 AM
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