Teofimo Lopez has revealed exactly who he wants to face next as he gears up for his return to the ring.
The 28-year-old from New York City currently holds the WBO super-lightweight title, making the most recent defence of his crown back in May when he defeated mandatory challenger Arnold Barboza Jr via unanimous decision at Times Square in New York.
‘The Takeover’ previously reigned as the unified WBA, WBO and IBF lightweight champion but decided to make the move up to 140lbs several years ago when he suffered the first defeat of his career to Australia’s George Kambosos Jr in November 2021.
Lopez is being tipped to make his next ring appearance during the early stages of 2026 as he sets his sights on facing just one fighter in particular, none other than countryman Shakur Stevenson.
With rumours circulating about a clash between Lopez and Stevenson set to take place in the near future, ‘The Takeover’ revealed in an interview with Fight Hype that he is ‘looking forward’ to facing the unbeaten star next.
“They know it’s not an easy fight man, so I’m just looking forward to it you know, enough of the talks, let’s make it happen.”
Stevenson, who currently reigns as the WBC lightweight champion, made his latest title defence back in July when he defeated Mexico’s previously unbeaten William Zepeda via unanimous decision at the Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York City.
The 28-year-old from Newark looks set to make the move up to super-lightweight to challenge Lopez for his WBO crown next, as he bids to become a four-division world champion in the process.
