JACK Catterall remains determined to secure another world title shot, calling for a potential showdown with WBO super-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez.
The 31-year-old will return to action against Arnold Barboza Jr this Saturday, headlining a Matchroom Boxing card at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, England.
But while Barboza, 31-0 (11 KOs), represents a formidable test, the Brit is nonetheless convinced that he will come away from their clash with the vacant WBO interim strap.
Catterall, 30-1 (13 KOs), comes off a dominant display against Regis Prograis, flooring the former two-time world champion – while also climbing off the canvas himself – before claiming a wide victory on points.
Before that, ‘El Gato’ once again showcased his versatile skillset by exacting revenge over domestic rival Josh Taylor, who claimed a highly controversial decision in their first encounter.
It is unsurprising, then, that Catterall is gleaming with confidence ahead of his dustup with Barboza who, like the Chorley man, comes off a fine run of form himself.
But still, while the American secured a career-best victory over Jose Ramirez in his last outing, he is seemingly being viewed as a stepping stone through the eyes of his opponent.
The winner of this fight, after all, will put themselves in a strong position to face Lopez, 21-1 (13 KOs), who has expressed little interest in defending his strap against either fighter.
Nevertheless, the opportunity to challenge for a vacant title could present itself should ‘The Takeover’ choose to relinquish his WBO belt.
“I’ve got to remain 100 per cent focused on Arnold,” Catterall said at today’s press conference.
“That being said, we understand the business and, if you look past Saturday, there’s so many great fights to be made.
“Lopez has got the WBO [title]. Hopefully that’s a fight that can be made down the line.”
