Top Rank CEO Bob Arum has teased the possibility of IBF lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez moving up in weight to face the winner of a potential undisputed super-lightweight showdown between Jose Ramirez and Josh Taylor.
Lopez (15-0, 12 KOs) has his own unification clash to negotiate first when he takes on unified champion and pound-for-pound superstar Vasiliy Lomachenko (14-1, 10 KOs) inside the ‘Bubble’ at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, on October 17.
Speaking via conference call ahead of Lomachenko-Lopez, Arum outlined several intriguing opponents for his young protégé in the future.
“First of all, Teofimo will have to decide whether he wants to stay at 135 or move up to 140. The next big fight at 140lbs is Jose Ramirez vs Josh Taylor, and I know that Teofimo would love to fight the winner,” said Arum.
Lopez was typically bullish in his response. “Put both of them in [with me],” said the IBF champion. “I’ll have Josh Taylor in the morning and I’ll have Jose Ramirez at night!”
However, Arum refused to rule out an extended stay at lightweight as he listed potential opponents for the heavy-handed Lopez.
“But, also at 135lbs, there are some interesting fighters out there. There is Ryan Garcia who fights under the Golden Boy banner, there’s Devin Haney who’s with DAZN, but would probably be available. [Felix] Verdejo, since being under his new trainer is looking absolutely great now, and he’s a potential opponent,” added Arum.
“Even if he doesn’t win this fight [with Lomachenko], he is a major, major draw and he can fight any of those guys.”