The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has directed top contenders Arnold Barboza Jr and Jose Ramirez to initiate negotiations for a match that could decide the fate of the 140-lb championship. This move follows a decision pending from the current WBO 140-lb titleholder, Teofimo Lopez, who has been given 24 hours to determine whether he will maintain or relinquish his title.
Simultaneously, the undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney has also been given a 24-hour window by the WBO to declare his future course. If he decides to compete at the 140 level, Haney could end up facing Barboza Jr for the potentially vacant WBO 140-lb belt, provided Lopez vacates. Despite Haney's seeming readiness to step up to light welterweight, he has also expressed interest in challenging WBC 140-lb champion Regis Prograis.
Lopez, who recently triumphed over WBO light welterweight champion Josh Taylor, hinted at a potential retirement from the sport. If he decides to stay, he would be required to defend his title against Barboza Jr, a boxer he has previously shown little inclination to face. With the tough match-up that Barboza Jr presents, along with a probable lesser payday, Lopez's retirement seems more likely than a return to the ring.
Former WBC & WBO light welterweight champion Ramirez has claimed victories in his recent matches, but he hasn't managed to impress the critics since his loss to Josh Taylor for the undisputed championship. Critics believe that despite his past successes, Ramirez has never truly excelled in the ring. They also draw parallels between Lopez and Tyson Fury, suggesting that both struggle to manage their success, with their performance potentially suffering due to an inflated ego following significant wins.
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