"Since then, Lopez, who enters the fight as a +250 underdog per DraftKings Sportsbook, has posted decision victories over Jamaine Ortiz and Steve Claggett in 2024, followed by a win over Arnold Barboza Jr. last May. While he hasn't recorded a stoppage since his seventh-round knockout of Pedro Campa in August 2022, Lopez has delivered several dominant performances, particularly against Taylor and Barboza."
"Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs), the reigning WBC lightweight champion, moves up to 140 pounds for the first time as he seeks to become a four-division world champion after title runs at featherweight, junior lightweight and lightweight. Widely regarded as one of boxing's elite defensive technicians, Stevenson (-330 favorite) has been criticized at times for his conservative style, but his ring control and evasiveness have made him nearly untouchable as a professional."
"The matchup presents a classic stylistic contrast: Can Lopez solve Stevenson's defense and impose his offense on the inside? Or will Stevenson control the range with his jab and footwork, neutralizing Lopez's power? Hall of Fame commentator Al Bernstein, former welterweight champion Shawn Porter, and former junior middleweight champion Raul Marquez break down how the fight could unfold and offer their picks for the winner."
Teofimo Lopez Jr. (22-1, 13 KOs) will defend his WBO junior welterweight title against Shakur Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs) at Madison Square Garden. Lopez captured the belt from Josh Taylor in June 2023 and has since earned decision wins over Jamaine Ortiz, Steve Claggett and Arnold Barboza Jr., entering as a +250 underdog. Lopez relies on power, footwork and athleticism and aims to close distance to land combinations. Stevenson moves up from lightweight seeking a four-division crown and depends on elite defense, jab, ring control and evasiveness as a -330 favorite. The fight poses a clash between inside offense and range control.
Read at ESPN.com
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