Maxi Hughes relishing underdog status ahead of William Zepeda showdown
Lightweight contender Maxi Hughes (26-6-2, 5 KOs) knows he is up against it when he takes on William Zepeda (29-0, 25 KOs) this Sunday, but has been in this familiar position before.
The 135lbs pair will clash at the Chelsea Ballroom, Las Vagas, live on DAZN, and the winner catapults himself into the mix to fight for a world title.
There was a time, though, when the prospect of Hughes reaching this level looked incredibly slim.
Speaking with Boxing Scene, Maxi said: “I’m chuffed to be here. We had to do Las Vegas medicals for Nevada State [Athletic Commission] yesterday, and as we were driving back I went passed it [a sign with his name in lights]. It was a surreal feeling.
“We’ve trained very hard and we’re both here because we’ve been ordered to fight by the IBF and the WBA.
“That’s what I’m reminding myself, when I look round and see the bright lights of Las Vegas, I haven’t been selected like Rocky was, chosen out of a book. I’m here on merit. I’ve earned this.
“We know what’s in front of us, although I’m a big underdog, nobody is giving me a chance, that’s the usual for us.”
When Hughes lost to his domestic rival, Liam Walsh, at the York Hall back in 2019, no one could have ever anticipated him headlining a show in Sin City.
But, throughout his career, the 34-year-old has responded to set backs with a winner’s approach, which is why he now finds himself in this more favourable situation.
While his opponent has earned a reputation as a devastating puncher, Hughes looks to continue his momentum that was briefly halted in July last year.
Zepeda, meanwhile, has strung together two stoppage wins since his dominant display against Joseph Diaz back in 2022.