Josh Taylor Expresses His Excitement for a Fight with Teofimo Lopez
Many observers were surprised when news broke that WBO junior welterweight champion Josh “The Tartan Tornado” Taylor (19-0, 13 KOs) is in negotiations to face one-time unified lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez (18-1, 13 KOs). But for the defending champion, the move makes complete sense.
WHY TAKE THIS FIGHT?
Taylor was headed for a rematch against his bitter rival, Jack Catterall, on March 4. But when the chance to face Lopez was presented, Taylor told UK source Sky Sports that it was an opportunity he could not pass up.
“It’s a huge fight and one that gives me that excitement and buzz. I’ve got that there as well, and it’s going to be an exciting one. I don’t think it’ll go the distance; one of us will get knocked out.”
NOT SLEEPING ON TEOFIMO LOPEZ
Lopez is the WBO mandatory contender at 140. But in his last, he struggled and was lucky to come away with a split decision victory over Sandor Martin in December 2022. Lopez was caught on camera expressing concern about his performance and ability following his win. That has led some fans to suggest that he is lacking in confidence. Taylor begs to differ and believes that Lopez will bring his A-game when they meet in the ring.
“He is a good fighter. He has had a couple of bad performances in his last couple of fights, but he is a good fighter. He is a former world champion, a unified world champion at lightweight.
He is coming up and wants to make a name. It’s a good fight and I’m really excited for it. It’s going to be a great fight – all action.”
Taylor – Lopez is being targeted for June 2023, either in Taylor’s home country of Scotland or in the United States at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The defending champion is currently rehabbing a torn plantar fascia in his foot. He says preparation for Lopez is underway and he will be one-hundred percent by the time the fight arrives.
