Josesito Lopez is noted for his all-action wars but hopes victory against Francisco Santana on next weekend’s Errol Spence-Danny Garcia undercard will propel him towards a fight against one of the welterweight division’s leading contenders.
The rejuvenated Lopez (37-8, 20 KOs and 1 NC) faces Santana at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, a reinvented fighter since linking up with trainer Robert Garcia. The respected coach has masterminded victories over the then-unbeaten Miguel Cruz and fringe contender John Molina as well as a competitive, majority decision loss to Keith Thurman in January 2019.
Santana, a former world title challenger at 147lbs and 154lbs, is promising more fireworks on December 5.
“Like in all of my fights, fans can expect action,” said Lopez. “I’m going up against a tough competitor who comes to fight every time. I’d recommend that fans don’t blink, because this fight could end at any moment. I’m just expecting an aggressive, tough fight.
“It’s been a tremendous difference working with coach Garcia. My mental state and my physical training are much better with him. This is like my second life in this sport. I wish I could have started working with him sooner. But now we’re just continuing to make progress and working towards the biggest fights possible.
“I’m not going after any particular name, but I’d love to get a fight with any of the top welterweights that are out there. I definitely think I’m prepared for any of them. Right now I’m just waiting for my moment.
“I have a big obstacle in front of me with Santana and I have to take care of business with him first on December 5. Santana is not an easy fight whatsoever. He’s a good fighter who’s given some of the top guys a run for their money. So if I’m able to dominate and get a decisive victory against him, then I’ll be able to show that I’m ready for the best in boxing’s deepest division.”
Lopez-Santana will be broadcast on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View on December 5 in the US.
Main image: Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions.