In a discussion with ProBox TV, esteemed American trainer Teddy Atlas shared his insights on the tumultuous career of WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez (20-1, 13 KOs). Reflecting on Lopez's trajectory since his victory over Vasyl Lomachenko in 2020, Atlas noted a pattern of inconsistency.
"Lopez defeated a great fighter in Lomachenko, but it's been a rollercoaster since then. It raises questions about his approach to fights. Does Teofimo only gear up for certain opponents that evoke a sense of danger or challenge? Is his performance contingent on the level of his opposition? These are tough questions to ponder," Atlas remarked.
Questioning Lopez's caliber as a boxer, Atlas added, "Is he as good as we once thought? There are moments in some of his fights that make you wonder."
ESPN insider Mike Coppinger recently reported that Lopez is finalizing negotiations for a bout against Canadian Steve Claggett (38-7-2, 26 KOs), with a provisional date set for June 29 in Miami, USA. In his last fight in February 2024, Lopez secured a unanimous decision victory over Jermaine Ortiz, while Claggett scored a TKO win over Marcos Gonzalez Berrazu in January 2024.