Richard Commey vs. Teofimo Lopez Preview
When: December 14, 2019
Where: Madison Square Garden, New York City
Network: ESPN & ESPN Deportes
Time: 9 PM EST
Richard Commey (29-2, 26 KOs) makes the second defense of the IBF Lightweight title against the much talked about upstart and #1 contender Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs) on December 14 at MSG on ESPN.
A match-up of the grizzled and hardened veteran Commey versus the precious Lopez is one of the more intriguing matches of the year.
The champion has worked hard and long to win a world title while the cocky young contender is getting the chance to prove that his ability matches his boasts. To add even more spice to the pot, both are two of the hardest hitting fighters in the division.
So, on paper, this fight has the recipe for fireworks.
Richard Commey
The 32-year-old from Accra, Ghana is essentially a skilled pressure fighter who attacks with patience but packs a lot of power. A fighter who possesses a solid jab and is an excellent combination puncher, Commey’s straight right hand is his go-to shot.
Yes, he has been hurt in the past, but has shown the ability to recover and fight back. The champ is as hard and tough as an oak.
Keys To Victory: Commey
Get the jab going early and find a home with his power. One of the big questions about the challenger is that his chin hasn’t been tested. Rough the challenger up when he’s in close.
Commey needs to find a home for the jab to neutralize his quicker opponent and land his vaunted right hand.
Teofimo Lopez
The 22-year-old from Brooklyn, New York is one of the more talented young fighters in the sport. On the surface, he seems to have it all: speed, power, skill, as well as the attitude in and out of the ring to be a future Pound-4-Pound star in the sport.
While the Brooklyn-ite has shown talent in spades, he lacks seasoned experience. Is Lopez one of those rare fighters whose talent supersedes everything?
Keys To Victory: Lopez
Stay composed and get off to an early start. He has to gain Commey’s respect. Much like the champion, the challenger must establish the jab. Use his speed, athleticism and combination punching to win rounds early, then push Commey back later in the fight as the champion is not nearly as effective fighting on the back foot.
Prediction
Both fighters are vulnerable and have questions. As a result, this will be an exciting fight. Commey will come out of the blocks firing behind the jab.
Lopez will land his share of punches, but in the end, the experience, toughness and the power of the champion will be the difference against the cocky challenger.
Commey wins by ten-round stoppage to retain his title!
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
