Usually, when Teofimo Lopez fights, the lead-up is full of bravado and ear-catching proclamations. That wasn’t the case going into the Steve Claggett fight.
Unlike his usual flamboyant style, Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs) approached the lead-up to the Claggett fight with a more subdued demeanor. However, once the fight began, his hands did all the talking, surprising everyone with his sudden change in approach.
Lopez virtually pitched a shutout in his unanimous decision win.
Claggett (38-8-2, 6 KOs) was determined to come forward with a high guard and pressure Lopez throughout the fight. It brought out the best in Lopez not only from a boxing perspective but also from an IQ perspective.
Lopez said, “I knew exactly what kind of fighter he was. I knew he would come forward and test my conditioning. And that’s what we had. We went twelve rounds.”
Despite spending time with his back to the ropes, Lopez could mount an effective offense, with his uppercut being his most effective punch of the night. Lopez could’ve been more active to the body, but the snap on his punches was present through all 12 rounds.
“I’m very grateful. He’s a tough fighter. I don’t think anyone should overlook him. I knew that coming into this.”
Photo Courtesy: Mikey Williams/Top Rank
