William Zepeda Wins Vacant WBC Lightweight Title
William Zepeda defeated Lamont Roach Jr. by unanimous decision on August 1, 2026, to win the vacant WBC lightweight title. The judges scored the bout 118–110 and 117–111 twice, according to the event reporting.
Twelve rounds settled the vacant title
Zepeda and Roach completed the scheduled championship distance, with the judges favoring Zepeda on all three cards. The verdict made him the WBC lightweight titleholder, while Roach’s challenge ended without a stoppage.
The scorecards show a clear points result rather than a close split decision. Official WBC and promotional coverage identify the belt as vacant, avoiding the impression that Zepeda took it from an incumbent champion in the ring.
A new chapter at lightweight
Zepeda had built his profile through a pressure-oriented style and a high activity level. Against Roach, the result was determined over twelve rounds, giving the champion a full-distance victory in a major divisional matchup.
The WBC’s title record provides confirmation of the championship change, while the event sources document the scores and date. The report focuses on that established result and does not assume what opponent or unification fight will follow.
Roach had campaigned at super featherweight and moved up to challenge for the vacant lightweight belt. The official result therefore marks a title win for Zepeda at 135 pounds; it was not a defense of a title Roach already held at that weight.
