FEW fighters have been demanding a fight as much as WBO super-lightweight world champion Teofimo Lopez, 21-1(13 KOs), as ‘The Takeover’ seeks to do just that and unify the belts in the 140lb division. Yet, failures to secure a fight with a fellow champion have left Lopez frustrated with his promotional outfit. However, he now has a new offer on the table.
Boasting legendary triumphs over Vasyl Lomachenko and Josh Taylor, Lopez has every right to be in the conversation as a pound-for-pound star. Still, it is his performances in supposedly easier contests that have led fans to believe otherwise, being notably fortunate in decision wins against both Sandor Martin and Jamaine Ortiz.
Nevertheless, Lopez has proven that he has the skills to defeat any fighter at 140lbs when he is at his best and is motivated, and he could well go on to dominate the division if presented with the opportunity.
According to reports, Lopez has been in failed negotiations with both Subriel Matias and Devin Haney in recent months, although current whispers suggest that a unification bout with IBF champion Richardson Hitchins, 19-0 (7 KOs), could be around the corner.
Speaking with Fight Hype, Top Rank promoter Bob Arum confirmed that negotiations with Hitchins are ongoing but admitted that the fight would be a part of a three-fight deal offered to Lopez by the Saudis, away from the Top Rank banner.
“The Saudis have come to us, and they’ve talked about making a three-fight deal with Teofimo, which we like very much. Now the ball is in Teofimo’s court to get his approval. The Saudis have stepped up to the plate, and as far as Top Rank is concerned, we’re pleased with the offer and the arrangement.
“Now, it’s up to Teofimo. I’ll be back in Vegas on Saturday, and I’ll be contacting Teofimo and his people to see where it goes from there.
“We’re talking to the Saudis [about Teofimo fighting IBF light-welterweight champion Richardson Hitchins]. We’ve had a good relationship with Teo, but it comes a time where they’re looking to fly a little bit on their own.
“That’s not unusual. It happens, but I think Teofimo will like the package the Saudis have presented, and we’ll go forward with him on that basis,” added Arum.
Hitchins has also been linked to a meeting with George Kambosos Jr, 21-3 (10 KOs), who is first expected to return to the ring in Sydney in March for his super-lightweight debut.
