Teofimo Lopez and Jamaine Ortiz held their pre-fight press conference in anticipation of their WBO Junior Welterweight Title bout, broadcasted from the Michelob ULTRA Arena, Mandalay Bay, in Las Vegas on February 8th.
The Takeover claimed the championship belt by handing Josh Taylor his initial career loss, marking Lopez’s ascent as a two-weight world champion. His triumph also solidified his status as a two-time lineal champion, having defeated Vasiliy Lomachenko at 135 pounds before facing Taylor.
Ortiz enters his debut fight in the Junior Welterweight division. After his defeat to Lomachenko, he rebounded with a victory over Antonio Moran. This upcoming bout is likely his most challenging to date, but he benefits from having Bill Haney in his corner. The matchup is intriguing, particularly as Lopez has been associated with a potential bout against Bill’s son, Devin Haney.
Comments made before the fight.
“I’ve been training continuously since August of last year, and I don’t plan on stopping. Even after defeating Jamaine Ortiz, I’ll continue to remain in the gym. The ultimate goal is for ‘The Showman’ to make a comeback. There will certainly be a knockout. This fight won’t go the distance. I won’t leave it to the judges at all,” Lopez stated.
“I will claim the title at 140 pounds. I’ll become the leading figure in the division, and I’m truly excited. I’m prepared. On February 8th, I’ll demonstrate that I possess the heart of a champion, leaving my opponent questioning his own capabilities once more. Come February 8th, I’ll bring everything—my heart, my soul, my entire being. I’m willing to put my life on the line in the ring on that day. I have more determination than him, and I’ll prove it. I’m a true competitor,” Ortiz declared.
In the main undercard event, Keyshawn Davis will face Jose Pedraza. Davis’s most recent fight resulted in a victory against Nahir Albright. However, the outcome was changed to a no-contest after Davis tested positive for marijuana. Davis aims to secure a victory that could potentially lead to a title shot against the winner of the Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. George Kambosos Jr. bout, scheduled for May 12, for the vacant IBF Lightweight Title. Now, let’s delve into the highlights from the press conference.