Teofimo Lopez talks up Lomachenko bout
IBF Lightweight world champion Teofimo Lopez (15-0, 12 KOs) made an appearance on ESPN to talk about his upcoming unification showdown against WBA/WBO world 135-pound champion Vasiliy Lomachenko (14-1, 10 KOs) on October 17 at the MGM Las Vegas bubble. As Lopez explained to Max Kellerman and Stephen A. Smith on First Take, he’s coming with no intention of losing.
“I’m the type of fighter who brings the fight to you, I bring it to you. Not only that, but I’m a big lightweight. And this guy, he’s better off at 126, at 130, and come October 17, we’re going to bring him back down to 130.”
Lomachenko has a reputation of being arguably the most skilled fighter in the sport. The unique way he applies his skillset often intimidates his opponents and has made some of his foes outright quit.
While expressing respect for his skillset, Lopez explained to the First Take crew that “Loma” often receives too much respect in the ring. The 23-year-old plans on not capitulating one bit to the unified lightweight champ and said he’s bringing the fight to the 32-year-old Ukrainian.
Lopez went on to make the claim that he’s on the ascension while Lomachenko is on the decline.
“He’s decreasing man. I’m not even in my prime yet and I’m just outdoing guys. This guy, he’s already on his way out and it’s showing. Your body can only take so much damage, and I guarantee you we’re going to put some damage to this man.”
That Lopez was a guest on First Take is an indicator of the importance of this fight. It also speaks to the investment that Bob Arum and Top Rank are making. It is a way to garner the attention of not just boxing fans, but mainstream sports audiences as well. Let the hype machine begin!
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
