Teofimo Lopez Opens Up About the Pain of Criticism Towards His Trainer Father, Reveals Impact Is More Hurtful than Loss to Shakur Stevenson
TEOFIMO LOPEZ revealed that the backlash his father and trainer received after the loss to Shakur Stevenson weighed more heavily on him than the loss itself.
The Lopez duo, Jr and Sr, is recognized as one of the most divisive pairs in the boxing world.
The outspoken father has been instrumental in securing victories against Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor.
Conversely, he has faced criticism for his coaching during losses, including to George Kambosos in 2021 and Stevenson earlier this year.
Lopez faced pressure to FIRE his dad but noted that the points loss to Stevenson in January only reinforced their enduring bond.
“I think it affected my father more, my trainer. You know, I think it affected him more,” he confided to SunSport.
STIFF JAB
Romero has gone without sex for over ONE YEAR as boxer commits to celibacy
THE LO DOWN
Ryan Garcia reveals prediction for Rolly Romero vs Teofimo Lopez title fight
“For me, I focused on ensuring that it didn’t create a rift between us, as we have titles to defend.
“He is my trainer, but also my father. I had to concentrate on what’s most important right now: my family, my wife, my son, and another baby on the way, while remaining dedicated to the gym and what we can achieve next.
Lopez, 29, was clearly outperformed over 12 rounds by the esteemed Stevenson, also 29, at New York’s Madison Square Garden.
BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS
However, he admitted that the criticism aimed at his dad stung far more than the in-ring defeat, which resulted in him losing the 140lb WBO title.
“I’d say yes, because it felt like something I foresaw. It’s like witnessing an event that you already know is coming,” Lopez articulated.
“So, when I came to terms with the defeat, I did so with poise, knowing that it was unavoidable. It was going to happen; there was no escaping it.
“But that’s the beauty of it: now I can recognize the signs to avert such situations in the future.”
Lopez’s four-year-old son, Teofimo III, is already displaying promise as the next generation in the family legacy.
“Oh, he’s amazing. I love having him around,” the soon-to-be father of two expressed.
“He comes into the backyard, hits the boxing bag, and practices his moves in the ring. And I’m not imposing anything on him.
“He can choose what feels right for him. His name is Teofimo Liam, but we usually call him Liam.
“When he gets older, I’ll ask him if he prefers to be called Teofimo or Liam.
“Regardless, that’s your name, but it’s the legacy you’ll uphold.”
Having experienced strain in his own relationship with his father due to the intensity of boxing, Lopez is open to entrusting coaching responsibilities to someone else for his son.
“I don’t think it would be my sole duty,” he remarked.
“I’ll serve more as a mentor, providing advice when necessary. I’ll keep that bond with him.
“But the crucial point is that his dad has walked the same journey and comprehends the path.
“I’ve traveled that road, so I can offer guidance. I believe that’s another reason Takeover Promotions and other fantastic ventures are thriving in the sport.
“I’m essentially laying the groundwork for when I retire, should he choose to follow that path.”
Despite remaining loyal to his father after the loss to Stevenson, Lopez has now moved up in weight and is competing as a welterweight.
He will battle Rolly Romero, 30, in a WBA world title fight.
Romero is a long-time friend and sparring partner of Lopez, but their longstanding friendship will be set aside this Saturday – broadcast live on DAZN PPV.
“I envision victory, man. Just victory,” Lopez proclaimed.
“Victory. That’s my objective: to dominate this weight class and capture his super WBA title.
“And if a stoppage occurs, so be it. All my previous stoppages happened naturally; I never sought them out.
“That’s the most exciting aspect I believe I’m bringing into this fight.”