Teofimo Lopez has been mandated to defend his WBA world title against British challenger Jack Catterall. Lopez secured the WBA ‘super’ welterweight championship last month by winning on points against Rolando Romero.
At 33 years old, Catterall is the mandatory challenger, though Lopez has been pushing for a unification fight with WBC champion Ryan Garcia instead. The WBA has now stated that Lopez is expected to face Catterall next, with both sides having until October 22 to finalize a deal before a purse bid is called.
Catterall earned the status of number one contender and WBA ‘regular’ titleholder after defeating Shakhram Giyasov in May. Responding to the WBA’s directive on social media, Catterall greeted Lopez with a simple message: “Hi Teofimo Lopez.”
The fighter from Chorley last contended for a world title in 2022, narrowly losing to then-undisputed light-welterweight champion Josh Taylor under controversial circumstances. Lopez, who has won world titles in three different weight classes, could choose to forfeit his title by pulling out of negotiations, potentially allowing Catterall to be elevated to world champion status.
Earlier this month in Las Vegas, Lopez attended the Garcia vs. Conor Benn event but was prevented from entering the ring following Garcia’s swift victory. Catterall owns a professional record of 33 wins, including 14 stoppages, with only two defeats against Josh Taylor and Arnold Barboza Jr. Meanwhile, 29-year-old Lopez has lost twice, once on points to George Kambosos Jr. in 2021 and most recently to Shakur Stevenson this past January.
Fan Take: This matchup is crucial for fight fans because it could either solidify Lopez’s reign or crown a deserving new champion in Catterall, both of whom bring exciting styles to the ring. A showdown between these fighters promises to be a defining moment in the welterweight division, shaping the future landscape of the sport.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
