Previously, Teofimo Lopez Jr. successfully defended his WBO junior welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Steve Claggett on Saturday night in Miami. Lopez landed a career-high 315 punches, securing the win with only one round going to Claggett on the three scorecards.
Lopez reflected on the fight during his post-fight press conference, "What a fight. Today wasn't about skills – it was about will and strength,” Lopez said. He praised Claggett’s conditioning and acknowledged the tough competition, stating, "He's a triathlon athlete. His conditioning was impeccable. He's never been 12 rounds before, so we knew we had to break him down. And me with asthma, I'm grateful." Lopez emphasized that tough fights bring out the best in him, and he remains unfazed by the physical toll as long as he secures the victory.
Despite being 5-0 at 140 pounds, Lopez has not scored a stoppage in any of his fights in the division. The 140-pound weight class boasts formidable opponents such as Devin Haney, Isaac Cruz, Liam Paro, Jose Ramirez, Jack Catterall, Regis Prograis, Alberto Puello, Gary Antuanne Russell, Rolando “Rolly” Romero, Richardson Hitchins, Sandor Martin, Dalton Smith, and former undisputed champion Josh Taylor, whom Lopez defeated last year.
Among these potential matchups, Lopez has expressed a strong interest in a title unification bout with WBA titlist Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. Lopez stated his readiness to face top fighters, including lightweight Gervonta “Tank” Davis and welterweight Terence Crawford, but emphasized his excitement for a clash with Cruz.
"F&ck yeah, I’m ready for [Cruz]. I'm excited. Now I know how to face fighters like that even better."
Read more about the full results of Lopez vs. Claggett event by clicking here.
Image Credit: Top Rank