Teofimo Lopez has confirmed via X that he will pursue a move to welterweight, despite being offered a fight for the IBF 140lbs title.
Teofimo Lopez (22-2, 13ko’s) was outclassed by Shakur Stevenson (25-0, 11ko’s) in their record breaking Madison Square Garden fight in January.
Headlining the Ring Magazine’s first event of 2026, Stevenson was a unanimous decision victor, capturing the WBO and Ring Magazine super-lightweight titles.
Whilst Lopez was second best, there is still plenty left in the man from Brooklyn.
At 28, ‘The Takeover’ is already a two weight Ring Magazine champion.
All the talk has been about a move to welterweight, but is that still the case?
Fellow New Yorker Richardson Hitchins has vacated his IBF super-lightweight world title just weeks after signing with Zuffa Boxing.
Subsequently, a piece of the 140lbs crown is now vacant.
Earlier this week, the IBF contacted Teofimo Lopez about fighting Lindolfo Delgado (24-0, 16ko’s).
The boxing world was left pondering whether Lopez would fancy another crack at 140lbs, or if he would move to welterweight.
In the early hours of today, Lopez took to X to release an update, it states:
“Go make Mexico proud, my buddy, Lindolfo Delgado! IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship title”.
“Long live Mexico and f*ck ice!”.
“Welterweight division take notice”.
Subsequently, this would suggest the world title opportunity has been snubbed.
Lopez has his sights on becoming a three weight world champion.
Who are potential opponents at 147lbs?
If the New Yorker is looking at becoming a world champion, the winner of Lewis Crocker (22-0, 11ko’s) and Liam Paro (27-1, 16ko’s) for the IBF title could be a viable route.
Another potential fight is with WBA champion Rolly Romero (17-2, 13ko’s) who has been out of the ring for close to a year now.
One fight that has already been discussed is against Ryan Garcia (25-2, 20ko’s).
However, Garcia is reportedly set to defend his WBC crown against Conor Benn (25-1, 14ko’s) this August.
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