What world title is at stake in the Teofimo Lopez vs Claggett fight?
‘The Takeover’ returns to the ring after a unanimous decision win over Jamaine Ortiz in February. What belt will he put on the line?
One of boxing’s young stars will return to action tonight, as Teofimo Lopez will step into the ring to take on the experienced Steve Claggett.
The Brooklyn native is a massive favorite to get the job done, but the Canadian will want to pull off a huge upset when both men collide at James L. Knight Center, in Miami.
The Takeover is the younger (26) and more talented fighter and will want to put on a show in a fight he’s expected to win. His opponent is nine years older and while he has been in the sport way longer, he has never faced such a talented rival like Lopez.
Although Lopez has had some disappointing performances since the biggest win of his career against Vasyl Lomachenko in 2020, like the ones against Sandor Martin or his defeat to George Kambosos Jr.-, he was pretty solid in his last two bouts against Josh Taylor and Jamaine Ortiz.
Meanwhile, Claggett (38-7-2) last fought Marcos Gonzalez Barraza in January, a clash he won via a second-round TKO.
Teofimo Lopez vs Steve Claggett: what world title is at stake?
Despite Lopez’s skills and pedigree should see him raising his hand against Claggett, he admitted he will have to be at his best to emerge victorious.
“This is going to be a tough fight. A lot of people look at Claggett’s record and think I’m going to fight a nobody, but he hasn’t lost in three years”.
“He has fought former champions. He always comes to fight and throws a lot of punches. I need to be in great condition to battle a fighter like him. I can’t overlook him, get overconfident, and play around with him. I know this fight will be great for all my people in Miami”, Lopez stated.
Although this isn’t a much-anticipated fight, Teofimo is aware there will be plenty at stake, as he will put his WBO junior welterweight world champion belt on the line and any mistakes could have a big negative impact on his career.
“Unlike these other supposed champs at 140, Steve Claggett is the only fighter who raised his hand and stepped up to challenge me. No other fighters were interested in getting in the ring with me”, Lopez added.
In the big events, Lopez always shows up, while he seems to be on his B level when his opposition is average. What version of Teo will show up today?