Bill Haney Criticizes Teofimo Lopez for Ignoring Unification Bout, Advocates for Devin Haney Showdown

In preparation for his upcoming bout on February 8, 2024, Teofimo Lopez, the reigning WBO 140-pound titleholder, is priming himself for his first defense against Jamaine Ortiz. Following a triumphant victory over Josh Taylor to claim the belt, Lopez has set his sights on a potential unification fight in the 140-pound division. Among the possible opponents for this highly anticipated showdown are Devin Haney and Subriel Matias.

While Lopez’s aspirations seem to be fixed on achieving further glory, his recent call-out of Terence Crawford has drawn criticism from Bill Haney. Rather than endorsing Lopez’s pursuit of a matchup against Crawford, Haney suggests that a unification bout at 140 pounds against Devin Haney would be a more sensible course of action.

Teofimo Lopez’s journey as a professional boxer has been nothing short of remarkable thus far. With the coveted WBO 140-pound title now in his possession, he faces the task of defending it against Jamaine Ortiz in what promises to be an enthralling clash. This upcoming defense will test Lopez’s mettle and showcase his ability to maintain his newly acquired status atop the division.

Although Lopez’s immediate focus rests on his forthcoming defense, his ambitions extend beyond this singular event. He yearns for a shot at unifying the 140-pound division, a prospect that holds immense allure for both boxing enthusiasts and critics alike. In this quest for undisputed supremacy, two prominent names stand out as potential adversaries: Devin Haney and Subriel Matias.

Devin Haney, known for his lightning-fast hands and technical prowess, presents a formidable challenge to Lopez’s championship reign. His impressive track record and unwavering determination make him a worthy contender for any fighter seeking to solidify their position at the top. A clash between Lopez and Haney has the potential to captivate the boxing world, with both fighters showcasing their unique skills and hunger for victory.

Similarly, Subriel Matias looms as another intriguing option for Lopez’s unification ambitions. With his explosive power and aggressive style, Matias has demonstrated his ability to shake up the division’s hierarchy. A showdown between Lopez and Matias would undoubtedly be a thrilling spectacle, as two fierce competitors clash in pursuit of glory and supremacy.

While Teofimo Lopez’s aspirations for greatness are commendable, Bill Haney, father and trainer of Devin Haney, questions the wisdom of Lopez’s recent call-out of Terence Crawford. Instead, he advocates for a unification bout at 140 pounds against his son, Devin Haney. This suggestion is rooted in the belief that a matchup against Haney provides a more logical step towards undisputed dominance, given their shared weight class.

As the countdown to Teofimo Lopez’s defense against Jamaine Ortiz continues, the boxing world eagerly anticipates the outcome. Lopez’s determination to unify the 140-pound division is evident, with fighters like Devin Haney and Subriel Matias emerging as tantalizing potential opponents. Yet, amidst this fervor, the critique from Bill Haney serves as a reminder to Lopez to “act like you got some sense” and consider the path that would solidify his legacy most effectively.

Emma Lewis

Emma Lewis