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Andreas Hale
Multiple Authors
On Saturday, Teofimo Lopez Jr. will defend his WBO junior welterweight title against Shakur Stevenson at Madison Square Garden in New York.
With a record of 22-1 and 13 KOs, Lopez, a previous unified lightweight champion, is making his fourth title defense after winning the belt via unanimous decision against Josh Taylor in June 2023 at MSG. Since then, he has won decision bouts against Jamaine Ortiz and Steve Claggett in 2024 and recently defeated Arnold Barboza Jr. last May. Though he hasn’t scored a knockout since August 2022 against Pedro Campa, Lopez has had impressive performances, especially against Taylor and Barboza.
His combination of power, footwork, and athleticism may be crucial, especially if he can close the distance and land effective combinations on a tricky opponent.
Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs), currently the WBC lightweight champion, will step up to 140 pounds for the first time, aiming to become a four-division world champion after previous titles in featherweight, junior lightweight, and lightweight. Known for his elite defensive skills, Stevenson (-330 favorite) has occasionally faced criticism for his cautious approach. yet, his evasiveness and control of the ring have made him nearly untouchable in the professional arena, recently showcasing a more aggressive side in a dominant victory over William Zepeda last July.
This matchup highlights a classic stylistic contrast: Will Lopez be able to break through Stevenson’s defense and launch his offense effectively? Or can Stevenson utilize his jab and footwork to keep Lopez’s power at bay?
Hall of Fame commentator Al Bernstein, along with former welterweight champion Shawn Porter and former junior middleweight champion Raul Marquez, share their insights on how the fight might unfold and their predictions.
Editor’s note: Content has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Shawn Porter, Former Welterweight Champion
The Matchup
Lopez possesses unique intangibles—athleticism, explosiveness, and power—that can’t be taught. Stevenson, meanwhile, has a natural ability to time his moves and dictate the fight’s tempo. While Lopez might have more options in the ring, he must determine how to effectively engage against one of boxing’s most elusive fighters and, more importantly, when to act. This fight leans in Stevenson’s favor.
How Does Lopez Win?
Patience will be crucial for Lopez. He needs to start the fight calmly, avoiding the urge to rush in for a big shot. Pushing too quickly will open him up to Stevenson’s timing. By using a simple jab and feints to disrupt Stevenson’s rhythm, Lopez can control the fight’s pace, creating his own opportunities.
How Does Stevenson Win?
Stevenson simply needs to remain true to his style. He excels in controlling the pace of the match and should aim to draw Lopez into an aggressive exchange. An aggressive opponent can play into Stevenson’s hands. If he deviates from his typical approach, it could lead to trouble. He successfully fought aggressively against Zepeda but will need to stay cautious against Lopez, who poses a significant offensive threat. yet, if Stevenson maintains his sharp counterpunching, he should secure the win.
Fight Prediction
Stevenson is in a position to lose this fight; thus, I expect him to win. While it’s a tough call, I lean towards Stevenson.
Raul Marquez, Former U.S. Olympian and Junior Middleweight Champion, Boxing Analyst
Breaking Down the Fight
I’m pleased this fight is taking place as scheduled. I was impressed with Shakur’s performance against William Zepeda, where he showcased more offense than usual, making the fight entertaining. Teofimo is one of those fighters whose performance can vary daily. When he’s at his best, he is a skilled and confident fighter with excellent footwork and explosiveness. Shakur is a highly intelligent boxer; though he may lack Lopez’s power, his speed and ring IQ compensate for it.
This is a top-tier boxing event. After three or four rounds, Lopez will need to take charge, as I believe he possesses greater strength and power. But can he assert that against Shakur? That’s uncertain.
How Does Stevenson Win?
Shakur must utilize his jab effectively, throw straight punches, and keep circling around Lopez. Controlling the center of the ring while avoiding the ropes is essential. He should unleash combinations, grapple as needed, and keep returning to the outside with his jab. The key for him is to remain focused, composed, and box efficiently.
How Does Lopez Win?
Initial rounds will involve figuring each fighter out, but eventually Lopez must go on the attack. When performing well, he becomes elusive, loose, and enjoys himself in the ring. The focus should be on attacking from various angles with combinations while consistently moving forward.
Fight Prediction
While the momentum suggests a Stevenson win, I wouldn’t be shocked if Teofimo pulls off an upset. I’m leaning towards Teofimo for the surprise victory.
Al Bernstein, Boxing Commentator and Member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame
The Matchup
This fight is intriguing because Stevenson is not only a skilled boxer but also an effective puncher. Lopez, equally adept, showcases a boxer-puncher style. though they differ in stance, their skill sets share similarities, with Stevenson leaning more towards pure boxing. The crucial factor is which version of Lopez will show up.
Stevenson generally holds an edge in consistency, despite having some criticized performances. yet, the unpredictability of both fighters adds intrigue. Will Stevenson adopt a more aggressive style? After showing offensive bursts against Zepeda, can Lopez approach this fight differently? These questions are key.
How Does Lopez Win?
Lopez must give his utmost effort. When at his best, he embodies the classic boxer-puncher archetype, particularly emphasizing his punching power. To win, he must maintain aggression and increase his punch output. It’s essential for Lopez to let his hands go consistently, preventing any lapses in activity. If he’s busy, balanced between body and head attacks, and adept at cutting off the ring without chasing Stevens, he could secure the win.
How Does Stevenson Win?
Stevenson should rely on his exceptional boxing skills while ensuring he remains offensively active to secure rounds. He needs to deliver enough offense to win, especially if the fight reaches the judges.
Fight Prediction
It’s difficult to bet against Stevenson, given his history of winning most rounds in his fights. yet, the ability to control the fight at this new weight class against Lopez remains uncertain. I’d give a slight edge to Stevenson, but it’s a closely matched fight.
