Trainer Teofimo Lopez Sr. expresses that his son, WBO light welterweight champion Teo, would be interested in taking on IBF 140-lb champ Subriel Matias. However, Lopez Sr. seems hesitant to pursue a fight with Matias due to the significant risks involved.
Lopez Sr. voiced his dissatisfaction with the evasive tactics employed by Jamaine Ortiz during their recent bout, expressing disappointment that Ortiz did not engage in a more direct confrontation with Teo (20-1, 13 KOs) in their main event at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.
If Lopez Sr. were to influence Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, he could potentially arrange a match between Teo and Matias, eliminating the concern of facing an elusive opponent. Matias, known for his aggressive style, would relentlessly target Teofimo in an attempt to deliver knockout blows, much like he did in his previous fight against Shohjahon Ergashev.
Arum had the option to pair Teofimo with Matias instead of selecting the technically skilled Jamaine Ortiz as his opponent. However, Arum’s decision to opt for an in-house Top Rank fight backfired, leading to Teofimo’s humiliation. Following this experience, Arum will need to exercise caution when selecting Teofimo’s future opponents.
Lopez Jr. dismisses Matias as “One Dimensional”
Many boxing enthusiasts speculate that Teofimo and Lopez Sr. are apprehensive about facing Matias due to his reputation as a devastating puncher and a formidable adversary.
Lopez Sr. asserts that Matias (20-1, 20 KOs) lacks versatility and has a weak chin, comparing him unfavorably to past Puerto Rican boxing legends such as Felix ‘Tito’ Trinidad, Wilfredo Gomez, and Hector ‘Macho’ Camacho.
“Matias is no Tito Trinidad, so let’s not exaggerate. Trinidad was dismantling opponents at Matias’ age,” commented Teofimo Lopez Sr. to Tru School Sports, downplaying the abilities of IBF light welterweight champion Subriel Matias.
“Matias is vulnerable. It’s widely known that he has a weak chin. In my opinion, Subriel Matias is a one-dimensional fighter. When Teofimo Jr. says that he can easily defeat any Puerto Rican, he is referring to the current era.”
Would Teofimo Face Matias?
“We have yet to witness another Tito Trinidad, Camacho, or Wilfredo Gomez. Matias holds a title, and what do we prioritize? We strive for championship belts,” responded Lopez Sr. when asked if he would like his son Teofimo to face Matias.
“Matias was aware of this. We called him out. He claimed, ‘They’re calling me out because I have a hand injury.’ Then he suggested, ‘Why don’t you challenge me after my fight?’ My son replied, ‘Sure, we can arrange that fight.’ Look at who he is fighting now. Liam Paro.”
According to the Source boxingnews24.com