Teofimo Lopez Vs. Shakur Stevenson – How Does It Play Out?

Teofimo Lopez and Shakur Stevenson could very well be facing off next, with reports the bout is a ‘done deal’ for New York City on January 31. 

The WBO Champion Lopez has won his last six fights, most recently against Arnold Barboza Jr. in May. He is a two-weight world champion, whose only defeat came against George Kambosos in 2021. A win may see Teo move up to 147 after having previously expressed his desire to potentially face Terence Crawford at the weight class before Bud moved up through the weights, although a fight against the likes of someone such as Devin Haney or Ryan Garcia is now more realistic.

Meanwhile, Stevenson knows a victory would mean a belt in a fourth weight class. He has previously won belts at 126, 130, and 135 pounds. He defeated William Zepeda in July in a defense of his WBC Lightweight Title, as he would be moving up for this Teo bout. 

"From what I’m told, it’s a done deal. We’re going to get Teofimo against Shakur in New York City on the last weekend of January. January 31st is the targeted date right now. I don’t necessarily love that fight in the ring. I think it has the potential to be a stinker based on the styles of both guys. But Shakur is the top dog at 135 lbs. Teofimo is the top guy at 140 lbs,” Chris Mannix said 

The Approach

Stevenson’s strategy will be built entirely on his elite defensive movement, ring IQ, and consistent volume punching to dismantle Lopez’s aggressive rhythm. Shakur must prioritize controlling the distance using his longer reach and superior footwork to stay just outside Lopez’s powerful punching range. He will use feints, pivots, and subtle shoulder rolls to make Lopez miss, and immediately counter-punch with clean, short combinations to score points.

Lopez’s goal will be to eliminate the space Stevenson needs to execute his defensive game. He must use a consistent, heavy jab to walk Stevenson down and pin him against the ropes, denying him the lateral movement that is essential to his defense. Lopez is known for his dynamic, unpredictable entries and must avoid the passive pace that has plagued him in some recent decision victories. He will be hunting for the overhand right and the left hook counter—punches that Stevenson is occasionally vulnerable to on the straight retreat.

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