Conor Benn will be a keen observer when Teofimo Lopez goes up against Shakur Stevenson this weekend.
Lopez defends his WBO super-lightweight title against reigning WBC lightweight champion Stevenson at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday, with Stevenson bidding to become a four-division world champion.
Stevenson is seen as the favourite heading into the bout, but Lopez will be looking to replicate the past performances he produced against the likes of Vasilly Lomachenko and Josh Taylor in order to retain his title.
British star Benn is set to be ringside for the bout, having been linked with both Stevenson and Lopez in recent times, as he plans his next move following his unanimous decision victory over long-term rival Chris Eubank Jr at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London back in November.
Speaking to Matchroom Boxing, Benn discussed his recent back and forths with Stevenson, but revealed he thinks Lopez has what it takes to claim the victory.
“Shakur’s on smoke you know. He messages me saying ‘I’m going to put it on you and you’re going to get it next.’ He’s on smoke. I rate it for a little man, but I think Teo can cause an upset.”
Lopez has suffered just one defeat in the paid ranks against George Kambosos back in November 2021, while Stevenson is unbeaten, so if the defending champion was to earn the upset victory, he would not only retain his belt but also hand his rival the first loss of his professional career.
