Teofimo Lopez has sent a warning shot to a former unified world welterweight champion.
‘The Takeover’ is on a fine run of form since suffering the first defeat of his career to Australia’s George Kambosos Jr back in November 2021.
The 27-year-old from New York City currently reigns as the WBO super lightweight world champion, a title he captured from the grasp of Josh Taylor two years ago.
Lopez has now made three successful defences of his crown, the most recent of which came against mandatory Arnold Barboza Jr on May 2 when he comprehensively outpointed the challenger over 12 rounds in Times Square, New York.
Though that was a dominant performance at the weight, Lopez has also expressed an interest in moving up.
Speaking to ES News, he was asked about a fight with former unified welterweight champion Keith Thurman and, though respectful, said he would absolutely take it.
“Keith Thurman? ‘One Time’ Thurman? Well it’ll be the ‘Last Time’ Thurman that’s what I’m gonna call him, ‘Last Time’ Thurman. You face Teofimo, man, nah you ain’t gonna win that one … It’ll be a good fight for sure, it’ll be a good fight.”
Thurman made his return to boxing earlier this year following a three year hiatus, defeating Australia’s Brock Jarvis via third round stoppage at the Hordern Pavilion in Sydney. It was Thurman’s first ring appearance since he defeated reigning WBC world welterweight champion Mario Barrios in February of 2022.
‘One Time’ is expected to campaign at super welterweight going forward. His next bout set to take place at some stage before the end of the year with an opponent set to be announced in the coming months.