Teofimo Lopez has set his sights on a significant fight later this year, expressing his desire to face WBO interim welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. in Los Angeles. Lopez anticipates that Norman will be promoted to full WBO welterweight champion following Terence Crawford’s recent move up to 154 pounds and capture of the WBA belt.
Securing the WBO title would position Lopez for a lucrative showdown against Crawford, although it's unlikely. Crawford, who recently shifted his focus away from a potential match with Canelo Alvarez, might find a fight with Lopez to be one of the more financially attractive options available at 154 pounds.
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"I thought the age would start catching up to him at 38, but it started at 36," said Lopez about Crawford’s recent performance against Israil Madrimov. Lopez also addressed rumors about dodging Norman, insisting that he’s ready for the fight and looking to try a different venue like Los Angeles, moving away from his usual fighting ground in New York City. Some speculate that this move might be motivated by tax considerations, although Nevada or Texas could offer even better tax benefits.
Lopez is optimistic about Norman’s elevation to full WBO welterweight champion now that Crawford has moved up. “Now that Crawford just fought, I think Paco [Valcarcel] is going to elevate Brian Norman to welterweight champion. So, I’ll fight for a world title. I don’t duck nobody. It could be the end of this year or in the fall.”
With his sights set on the Staples Center in Los Angeles for this high-stakes bout, Lopez is eager to explore new avenues and remain active in the ring. “It doesn’t matter to me. We’re ready, we’re staying ready. I’m at 155 right now. I’m sure he’s at 170, and that’s fine. We just keep going like that.”
Image Credit: Top Rank