Sergio Mora believes that William Zepeda could challenge Devin Haney for his lightweight world titles.
Haney is the undisputed champion at 135lbs after successfully defending his four belts against George Kambosos in Australia last month, and while he has been linked with a fight with former unified champion Vasily Lomachenko, he has no bout booked as of yet.
Zepeda fought live on DAZN on Saturday as he defeated former junior lightweight champion JoJo Diaz is a busy display, and such was the force of his performance that Mora believes he has a number of options open to him.
He, however, does not think he will get one of the biggest names until he makes another stepping stone opponent look poor.
“He’s not gonna get one of the four of five kings, so I think he’s going to have to get Isaac Cruz,” he said.
“I think Isaac Cruz is the perfect match-up. A fan-friendly fight. Both of them come forward, hard punchers, and it’s a fight both of them would take. Zepeda wants all the smoke. If he can take care of business against a guy who gave [Gervonta] 'Tank' Davis a tough fight, that’s how you make a name for yourself. Tonight he made a statement, if he can make a statement against Pitbull, that’s how you become great.”
Asked if Liam Paro might offer some appeal, he agreed, saying: “I love that fight, an Australian and a Mexican, that will sell anywhere. They’re both very fan friendly as well. It’s an easy fight to make. It’s another excellent fight.”
Despite looking at a lower level of fighter, he still thinks that he may even trouble Haney, with his toughest fight perhaps coming up against Davis.
Mora observed: “I think he gives them all a run for the money. I think the only one he wouldn’t have the upper hand over would be Tank Davis.
“Styles make fights: another southpaw puncher, harder puncher than Zepeda. It all is a style match up. I think against Devin Haney that’s his best bet.”