Stevenson seizes Lopez’s title to become four-division champion

Shakur Stevenson decisively defeated Teofimo Lopez in a masterclass performance Saturday night, capturing the WBO junior welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

Stevenson (25-0, 11 KOs) had vowed to make the bout against Lopez appear effortless, and he succeeded, with all three judges recording the fight at 119-109 in his favor. This victory also marked Stevenson as the fastest fighter to achieve four-division champion status.

“I broke him down and executed my game plan,” Stevenson stated. “This is the essence of boxing—hit without being hit and outmaneuver opponents. I’ve claimed I’m the best fighter in the world, and I firmly believe that.”

Using a powerful jab and swift reflexes, Stevenson controlled Lopez from the very start. Instead of circling the ring, Stevenson confidently stood his ground in the center, systematically breaking down Lopez and draining his morale as the fight progressed. Lacking effective tactics, Lopez’s father and trainer resorted to urging him to push forward instead of providing strategic advice during the breaks.

although his determination, Lopez (22-2, 18 KOs) struggled to keep pace with Stevenson, who outperformed him with a staggering 78-23 punch advantage after six rounds, leaving Lopez unable to adapt successfully.

Following his victory, Stevenson issued a challenge to Conor Benn, who last competed against Chris Eubank Jr. at 160 pounds in November.