The same issues surfaced against Zepeda that were there in Roach’s draws with Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz. His skill level allowed him to compete, but he lacked size, punching power and the work rate to defeat them. If he possessed even one of those advantages, his chances of winning a title at 135 or 140 would look much stronger.
Returning to super featherweight appears to be the better move from a competitive standpoint. Roach won his world title at 130 and has already shown he belongs among the division’s top fighters. Anthony Cacace looks like the most realistic championship target. Emanuel Navarrete and O’Shaquie Foster present more difficult stylistic tests, while Andy Cruz is reportedly planning to campaign at 130, giving the division another elite contender.
The problem is that the biggest money isn’t at super featherweight.
Roach has made no secret of his interest in fighting Shakur Stevenson, and it’s easy to understand why. The biggest purses are at lightweight and light welterweight, where the sport’s biggest names attract the most money. Going back to 130 may improve Roach’s chances of winning another world title, but it also reduces his opportunities to land the fights that can change his career financially.
Staying at lightweight comes with another set of problems. Zepeda exposed the same physical disadvantages Roach encountered against Davis and Cruz, while contenders such as Floyd Schofield and Abdullah Mason would present difficult challenges. A move to 140 offers little relief with heavy hitters like Ernesto Mercado waiting in that division.
Roach’s post made it clear he plans to continue, but Saturday’s loss also highlighted the difficult position he’s in. The weight class that gives him the best chance to win another title isn’t the one that offers the biggest paydays. Deciding which path to pursue may be the biggest fight of his career outside the ring.
