Teofimo Lopez became a two-weight world champion with a dominant victory over previously undefeated Josh Taylor, and promptly announced his retirement afterwards.
Lopez went into the bout as a betting underdog and with many fans questioning his mentality. He silenced those doubters by putting in a performance reminiscent of his statement victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko back at lightweight.
Beating the Scotsman, who was previously undisputed at 140lbs, has given Lopez the WBO world title at a second weight – but he’s not keen on defending it.
The day after the bout, he took to social media to announce his retirement at 25-years-old.
“What a relief! Retired at the Top. Thank you boxing for the amazing life you’ve provided for myself and my entire loved ones! THE DOUBLE GREATEST!”
Many in the sport are sceptical about the quick decision, and Lopez has indeed left the door open for a return. He told Shawn Porter on his podcast what it would take to get him back in the ring – a lot of cash.
“The only way you get Teofimo back is a nine-figure contract deal. Because I’ve made ESPN over a hundred million dollars, and I’m still getting paid a million dollars to fight.
While all these others fights who have not even done a quarter of what I’ve done and accomplished are in the sport, they’re getting eight, ten, twelve, fifteen million dollars. So obviously I’m the black sheep of the industry.”
Fans will want the champion to stick around after the performance against Taylor which was, in moments, punch perfect work.
He has plenty of willing opponents, too, with three other champions at super lightweight hoping to unify the belts as well as some rivals from the past looking to make their debut in the division.