Teofimo Lopez Combats Self-doubt with Public Bravado
Fighters are often guilty of projecting a level of public uber-confidence as a defense mechanism to conceal or hide their self-doubt. When those insecurities are exposed, they often double down on the bravado. The latest example of this is currently happening with Teofimo Lopez (18-1, 13 KOs).
RELATED: Teofimo Lopez Expresses Doubt: “Do I Still Got It?”
Much has been made about his comments immediately following his disputed split decision win over Sandor Martin on December 10 at Madison Square Garden. The ex-unified lightweight champion was heard on camera questioning his own ability during his performance against Martin. It was a striking moment of introspection.
CLAPPING BACK
The normally braggadocios and trash-talking fighter was chided by some fighters, pundits, and fans. It appears that the fighter was aware of the criticism and has decided to respond. The 25-year-old went to social media and said the following:
SPIN DOCTOR
The pride of Brooklyn asks whether folks are being dumb, but the cameras don’t lie. When someone shows you who they are, from an emotional standpoint, believe them. In reality, some in the boxing community feel Lopez is not the same fighter since his loss to George Kambosos Jr in November 2021. The belief is that he has lost his confidence. Lopez gave further credence to those suspicions with his comments following the Martin fight.
Despite his reaction, Lopez is clearly a fighter battling with self-doubt. Asking his team if he still has the pepper is a clear sign. No social media post will hide that reality. Only 25, the physical ability is there. The question is: can he overcome what are obviously some mental hurdles and demons that beset him right now?
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
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