Teofimo Lopez to Defend WBO Super-Lightweight Title Against Steve Claggett in Miami

Teofimo Lopez is set to defend his WBO super-lightweight title against Canada's Steve Claggett at the James L. Knight Center in Miami on June 29. This fight marks a significant opportunity for Lopez to solidify his reputation as the world's leading fighter at 140lbs following a lackluster victory over Jamaine Ortiz in February, his first bout since Devin Haney's defeat by Ryan Garcia in April.

“I have always wanted to fight in South Florida, where I grew up and developed as a fighter,” said the 26-year-old Lopez. “I never thought it would happen, but now, on June 29, I get the opportunity to do so not just as a world champion but as the lineal world champion of my division.

This has been one of my goals since turning pro, and I’m motivated to showcase my talent there in front of my Honduran fans and the entire Latino community. This is like a Rocky Balboa story for Steve Claggett. I’m very much looking forward to what kind of style I’m going to see. There were no other fighters who were interested in fighting me, and I felt like he would give not just me, but the fans as well, a great fight to watch.”

Steve Claggett, 34, has often struggled when stepping up in class, such as in his 2016 loss to Chris van Heerden, but he enters this fight on a nine-fight winning streak. “I have worked my entire life for this opportunity, and I intend to make the most of it. I am more motivated than ever before, and I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got,” Claggett said.

The undercard features the talented Cuban fighter Robeisy Ramirez, who is making his return after losing his WBO featherweight title to Rafael Espinoza in December in one of the most exciting fights of 2023. Ramirez will face Mexico's Brandon Leon Benitez. Additionally, Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of the legendary Muhammad Ali, will seek revenge in a middleweight bout against Sona Akale, who handed Walsh his first professional loss via majority decision in August 2023.

“Teofimo Lopez is among the most electrifying fighters in the sport, and I know he’s motivated to put on a show against a very tough challenger in Steve Claggett,” said Bob Arum of Top Rank, the organization promoting the June 29 event.

“Robeisy Ramirez wants to become a two-time world champion, and the road back starts in his adopted hometown. Nico Ali Walsh has been asking for the Akale rematch from the moment the judges’ decision came back after their first fight, and he now has a chance for revenge.”

The event promises to be a thrilling night of boxing, with top-tier talent and high-stakes matchups that will captivate fans.