Teofimo Lopez Looking To Stage Late July Comeback
Since his last match, and first professional defeat, former lightweight boxer Teofimo “Take Over” Lopez (16-1, 12 KO’s) has been a rather quiet fighter. He has effectively withdrawn from making the frequent social media posts that he’s made in the past. In accordance with his diminished level of public communication, there has not been much word or indication when Take Over is planning on staging a ring return.
The only thing that has been made clear is that Team Lopez has every intention on moving up to 140. Yet, in a recent showing at the thrilling Katie Taylor versus Amanda Serrano bout, Teofimo Lopez, along with his father and chief second, Teofimo Lopez Sr., spoke a bit about coming back. In doing so, Senior alluded to the Take Over’s previous health scare and their mind state.
“We are talking, we have a three-fight deal with Top Rank with Take Over Promotions, which is two pay-per-views and one ESPN fight this year. So people think we are out the scene. We are not out the scene! He is just trying to get better, you know because he was really, really messed up when he fought Kambosos, he was really sick. We are taking care of that first because we are going into the next fight 100%.”
TIME TO HUNT A MONSTER?
It will be interesting to see who Take Over attempts to fight in his first match at super lightweight. Team Lopez has let it be known loud and clear that they would jump at the chance to face undisputed 140-pound champion Josh Taylor. To this point though, the Irish boxer has treated the notion of a showdown with nothing but disdain and disinterest. So that just may not be the one to rest their hopes on.
One of his best bets would be going with Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (27-1, 23 KO’s). The one-time WBA super lightweight champion, who owes his only defeat to the aforementioned Josh Taylor, is always looking for a good scrap. Prograis most certainly represents the upper echelon of talent in the 140-pound division. If Lopez can hold his own with Rougarou then he knows that he truly belongs in the new realm.
Also, Prograis has a well-established name, would likely come attached to a hefty purse and a victory would near guarantee Lopez a significant surge in the rankings. Therefore Prograis offers many athletic and economic perks as a potential opponent. Yet, no matter how these matters ultimately unfold, 3Kings Boxing will be here to tell the story!
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By: Bakari Simpson
