“I’m Tired of Helping This Kid Be Something That He Is Not”: Teofimo Lopez Decides to Come Out of Retirement for Potential Devin Haney Fight

Teofimo Lopez last fought against Josh Taylor and announced his retirement after winning the super-lightweight title. Not to mention, after his retirement, he vacated his championship belt. Many considered Lopez’s retirement to be genuine and respected his decision. At 25 years of age, he etched his name as of one the best boxers in recent times. However, there might be more to his career and his retirement may be kept in abeyance for a specific fighter and that is, Devin Haney. After Haney’s most recent win against Vasiliy Lomachenko, the undisputed lightweight champion, in the post-fight interview, teased a move up in weight class. 

Not to mention, his potential fight with Shakur Stevenson is in jeopardy over their ‘purse split’ dispute. However, Haney is not short of opponents as Eddie Hearn is looking to book a fight for him with Regis Prograis for the WBC super-lightweight title. Amidst the entire fiasco, the former WBO super-lightweight champion made a series of tweets and called out Haney for a potential clash. 

Teofimo Lopez calls out “B*tch” Devin Haney

Haney and Lopez share a history with each other. The two were speculated to fight and there was lots of hostility between the two. However, the fight did not take place but the bad blood still exists between them. It is evident from the fact that Lopez is cutting no corners to prevent Haney from becoming the world champion in the super lightweight division.

On Twitter, he called out Haney and it was far from a friendly callout, to say the least. He stated, “Yo @Realdevinhaney, since you were so quick to jump in the mix for my WBO Championship belt! Let’s make the fight happen so the world can see who is about that action. & no, you will not be on the A-side. I hold the King title of the division as well! So don’t run away!! B*tch”

In another tweet, he revealed that he does not want to give Haney an opportunity to win the title by facing Arnold Barboza.

Read more: The WBO Turns Down Devin Haney’s Extension Request to Consider Fighting at 140

Reflecting on the same, he stated, “Came out of retirement (I guess) because the next move was for Devin Haney to fight sorry ass Arnold Barboza for my WBO championship title at 140lbs. F’ that. I’m tired of helping this kid be something that he is not. And that’s a real champion!”

It is safe to say that Lopez wants Haney next but does Haney want to face him? Only time will tell as he is yet to respond. However, the matchup may not seem far too unlikely. Both competitors are former lightweight champions. If it does take place, who do you predict will win  the contest? In addition, what do you make of Teofimo Lopez calling out Haney? Share with us your predictions and opinions in the comments below.