The boxing world is gearing up for an electrifying encounter as WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez squares off against lightweight Jamaine Ortiz. This much-anticipated bout is slated for Thursday, February 8th, at the renowned Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada. According to insider Mike Coppinger, the fight is in its final stages of confirmation, adding to the excitement leading up to the Super Bowl weekend.
Initially, former WBC & WBO 140-lb champion Jose Ramirez was approached for the fight but declined, paving the way for Ortiz to step in. Ortiz, known for his significant size advantage post-rehydration, could pose a formidable challenge to Lopez. He’s not quite at Devin Haney’s level, who bulks up to a super middleweight size, but his physicality is not to be underestimated. Ortiz’s performance against Vasily Lomachenko in October 2022, where he dominated the early rounds before losing steam, is a testament to his potential and the pitfalls he faces in the ring.
Ortiz’s stamina has been a recurring concern, often diminishing in the latter half of high-stake matches. This aspect was evident in his fights, notably against Joseph Adorno and Antonio Moran. Despite this, Ortiz’s skill and tenacity are undeniable, as shown in his triumph over former WBC 130-lb champion Jamel Herring.
On the flip side, Teofimo Lopez, at 26, is eyeing a major career boost with this fight. A victory over 27-year-old Ortiz could lead to a summer unification bout with IBF 140-lb champion Subriel Matias, a fighter enjoying a surge in popularity following impressive victories over Shohjahon Ergashev and Jeremias Ponce.
However, Lopez’s decision to defend his title against a lightweight contender, especially one recently bested by Lomachenko, raises eyebrows. While casual fans might overlook this, boxing purists question why a more established light welterweight contender isn’t challenging for the WBO 140-lb belt.
Image Credit: Sky Sports