WBC Orders Lightweight Title Fight Between William Zepeda and Jadier Herrera

The World Boxing Council (WBC) has taken an uncommon step by ordering a unification bout between lightweight champion William Zepeda and interim titleholder Jadier Herrera. The fighters have been given until October 20th to finalize their agreement.

Herrera, boasting an undefeated record of 18-0 with 16 knockouts, earned his interim belt after decisively defeating veteran Ricardo Nunez. This came following Shakur Stevenson's move up in weight to challenge for the super lightweight title against Teofimo Lopez. After Stevenson was stripped of his title due to unpaid fees, instead of simply promoting Herrera or filling the vacancy with another contender, the WBC allowed Zepeda (34-1, 27 KOs) to claim the full title by overcoming Lamont Roach Jr this past August.

The lightweight division now features Zepeda, a challenging champion especially for a 24-year-old whose notable victory is somewhat questionable after a recent disqualification loss to Jon Fernandez. Despite this, both Zepeda and promoter Frank Warren are eager for the fight. Unless Zepeda pursues a unification match with Abdullah Mason or decides to vacate the title, all indications suggest that Herrera will receive his opportunity to unify the belts.