Teofimo Lopez (20-1, 13 KOs) has had a curious run of form leading up to his June 29 clash against Steve Claggett (38-7-2, 26 KOs).
Since losing his lightweight titles to George Kambosos, “The Takeover” is 4-0 and the reigning WBO super lightweight champion. Despite being unbeaten in that period, not every bout has been smooth sailing. However, some believe that against Claggett fight fans can expect a more dominant Lopez.
The two men headline a Top Rank card in association with Eye of the Tiger Management at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, FL. Viewers in the United States can catch the action live on ESPN, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes. Sky Sports will broadcast the event in the United Kingdom and Ireland, while those in Canada can do so on TSN.
In anticipation of the super lightweight world title contest this Saturday, Big Fight Weekend looks at the last three fights of Lopez.
The Last Three Fights of Teofimo Lopez
Jamaine Ortiz
Against Jamaine Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs), Lopez won a unanimous decision with scores of 117-111 and 115-113 (x2). Unfortunately for viewers, Ortiz’s movement and Lopez’s inability to cut off the ring led to a lack of action in this fight. According to CompuBox punch statistics, Lopez landed 78 punches while Ortiz landed 80. Despite the low punch output, the judges favoured the reigning champion’s aggression, allowing him to retain his title.
Josh Taylor
Josh Taylor (19-2, 13 KOs) had been a super lightweight champion for over four years when he faced Lopez. Previously an undisputed champion, he came into the fight with just the WBO title. Lopez dominated the bout from round three onwards, out-throwing and out-landing the Scotsman. The former unified lightweight champion was the quicker of the two and applied unyielding pressure on his opponent en route to claiming the WBO title via unanimous decision (117-111 and two scores of 115-113) against the odds.
Sandor Martin
This was a 10-round fight that saw Lopez go to the canvas in the second against Sandor Martin (42-3, 15 KOs). The boutitself was fought at a slow pace and those in attendance booed what transpired. Neither fighter landed more than 100 punches according to CompuBox statistics. Lopez struggled to find his range, walking into check hooks repeatedly. While one judge saw the contest 95-94 for Martin, the other two had it 97-92 and 96-93 for Lopez.
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