Recently, current WBO Super Lightweight Champion and two-division world champion American Teofimo Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs) told the media that he plans to move up to 147lbs soon, with his sights set on current WBO Welterweight Interim Champion American Brian Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs).
Teofimo Lopez said, “I plan to move up to 147lbs, maybe for my next fight. It would be an honor to become a three-weight world champion at 27 years old. I did say before that I wanted to retire, feeling like I’ve achieved everything I wanted, especially after my big win over Josh Taylor (19-2, 13 KOs). At that time, I was lacking motivation. Now, I’m still passionate about boxing. I love it, and that’s the most important thing. As I grow older, I’m maturing, becoming smarter both intellectually and in the ring. I will continue to improve. Top Rank is now planning my career.”
Brian Norman Jr. said, “A fight between me and Lopez could easily be made. If Lopez wants to come up to 147lbs, I welcome him with open arms. I’ve seen his previous fights; he wants to make a name for himself while he’s young. Our fight is a business, it might happen or it might not.”
The 26-year-old Teofimo Lopez may be struggling to make weight, hence his move up to 147lbs. There are more influential fights at 140lbs with Devin Haney, Isaac Cruz, and Shakur Stevenson possibly moving up soon.
At 147lbs, Crawford and Spence Jr. are looking to move up to 154lbs, leaving only IBF Welterweight Champion Jaron Ennis (32-0, 29 KOs) as a notable fighter. Ennis, a natural 147lb banger, doesn’t offer great value for Lopez to challenge.
Lopez Eyes 147lb Upgrade to Challenge Brian Norman Jr.. Author:Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced:https://www.sportsuefa.com/boxing-zone/21250.html