Garcia made his intentions clear

“How about a fight between Raymond Muratalla and Camaron Zepeda this summer in Southern California? @GoldenBoyBoxing @trboxing,” Garcia wrote.

The timing of Garcia’s message reflects Mulatala’s strengthened position following his Jan. 24 majority decision victory over Andy Cruz. Cruz was undefeated and widely respected after winning Olympic gold in 2020, but Mulatala’s aggressiveness convinced two judges to approve his decision. The outcome boosted Mulatala’s standing and put him on a different footing in discussions within the department.

Zepeda has built a reputation through pressure and consistent output, losing a unanimous decision to Shakur Stevenson in Queens last July. This failure did not diminish his credibility because his approach forced Stevenson to engage in communications that he usually avoided.

style test appears

Zepeda landed multiple strikes to the body early, forcing Stevenson to long stretches on the ropes while absorbing the continued attacks. Replays of the third round showed Stevenson touched the canvas after the jab, although the knockout was not officially ruled.

Garcia’s callout positions Mulatala opposite a style that presents a different type of check. Muratalla relies on timing and power, while Zepeda forces the opponent to move faster over 12 rounds. The contrast required Mulatala to answer questions he had never been faced with often.

Pressure faced by promoters

Promotional realities add urgency as Muratalla fights under Top Rank while Zepeda is promoted by Golden Boy, forcing the two rival companies to come to an agreement before the opportunity moves elsewhere. Garcia’s public message removes uncertainty about his position and suggests Mulatala’s team is prepared to go head-to-head.

Zepeda remains atop the WBC rankings and could be offered a solo title shot, adding to the importance of the timing of any deal being struck. Garcia doesn’t make public requests at will, and it sounds like a deliberate move to ensure a fight that quickly determines Mulatala’s standing in the division.