Two-weight world champion Teofimo Lopez has shared an important update on his next fight, which is set to come against one of two fighters in particular.
The 28-year-old from Brooklyn currently reigns as the WBO super-lightweight champion, making the most recent defence of his title back in May when he defeated mandatory challenger and countryman Arnold Barboza Jr via unanimous decision in New York City.
Lopez previously held the unified WBA, WBO and IBF lightweight titles, a feat he accomplished back in 2020 when he outpointed Ukrainian icon Vasiliy Lomachenko at the conclusion of their showdown in Las Vegas.
Reports are suggesting that ‘The Takeover’ is set to make his long-awaited return to the ring in January of 2026, with rumours circulating that his most likely opponent will be unbeaten WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson.
Whilst Lopez is likely to lock horns with countryman Stevenson next, it is also being suggested that the 28-year-old could be in line for a clash with Filipino icon Manny Pacquiao.
As revealed on a recent Instagram story, which has now been deleted, Lopez released a poll asking fans whether he should face Stevenson or ‘PacMan’ in January.
Teofimo Lopez on a deleted Instagram story on whether he should fight Shakur Stevenson or Manny Pacquiao in January‼️😳 pic.twitter.com/q1vyddiX97
— Hassan (@Hassanwellss) October 15, 2025
Eight-division world champion Pacquiao made a sensational return to the ring back in July, fighting to a majority decision draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios in Las Vegas.
Stevenson’s most recent ring appearance also came in July when he made the third successful defence of WBC lightweight title, defeating Mexico’s William Zepeda via unanimous decision in arguably the best performance of his career to date.
