Promotor Eddie Hearn says he did not conduct a “deep conversation” about the fight for unification between his fighter IBF Light champion in the velter category Richardson Hitchins and WBO champion Teofimo Lopez. Hearn says he’s ready to fight if it’s “job” right.
If Teofimo (21-1, 13 ko) does not fight Hitchin or one of the other 140 pound champions in the unification, then he must face the winner of Jack Catterall Vs. Arnold Barboza Jr. Fighting this Saturday. The two are fighting for a temporary title WBO.
Implications of Catterall-Barboz
The only second option for the Teo if he does not fight unification or defend himself against the winner of the Catterall-Barbos JR. is to give up his WBO title. This means that the winner of this fight will be raised into the status of a champion and this will happen by Hearn Sumves.
“We constantly see the conversations about Teophima and Richardson Hitchins. Obviously Richardson is with us, and I have yet to talk deeply about this fight, “Eddie Hearn said IFL TV About the Conflict of Unification between IBF Light Welterweight Richardson Hitchins and WBO champion Teofimo Lopez.
“We’re good for that. It’s a great fight. At the same time, that job must be done. Richardson has opportunities. He just won the world title. Do you want to jump into that fight now? If the job is right, absolutely. If he (Lopez) does not fight Richardson Hitchins or does not get unification, he will not be allowed to fight with anyone (if he wants to keep his WBO 140 LB.) will have to fight the winner of this fight (Jack Catterall vs. Arnold Barboza Jr).
“If he is fighting Richardson, I think Richardson wins,” Hearn said of his belief that Hitchins would beat Teofimo. “If not, I think Teo will move and fight against boots. I think the winner of this fight (Catterall-Barboza Jr.), there is a very good chance to just automatically become a world champion. You never really want it. This is this. which is worthy of the World Cup.
Teofimo will not fight the winner of this Saturday’s fight between #1 WBO Arnold Barboz Jr. and #2 Jack Catterall.
So three options for Theophimo are as follows:
- Richardson Hitchins – Unification in 140
- Hold the contract for the Catterall-Barboz winner Jr.
- Empty the WBO belt
Teofimo will not lead a risky fight for low money against Catterall or Barbos Jr. Because it would be tough matches, not worth the PPV.
Last time updated 13.02.2025