LUIS Alberto Lopez is under no illusion he has a difficult fight coming up against Michael Conlan but believes his power will prove decisive.
On May 27 at the Odyssey Arena, Belfast a hostile crowd will be ready and waiting for the Mexican world featherweight champion. Conlan, meanwhile, will be able to draw on the fever pitch atmosphere and the support of a nation in his second world title shot.
Lopez 27-2 (15) won his championship on enemy territory in December when he handed Josh Warrington a second career loss in front of the Brit’s raucous supporters in Leeds. That night the challenger won a deserved decision, but says his first defence will end differently.
“This is going to be a great fight. He’s an Olympian. He knows how to stick and move. It’s going to be a difficult fight. But my preparation has been excellent. This has been the best training camp of my entire career. And as soon as he starts planting his feet a bit, the fight will end very quickly.
“It wouldn’t be smart for him to try to brawl with me. So, I expect him to come out and box. But I have the speed and strength to cut the ring and find him. I will knock Michael Conlan out!”
