Since his last fight against Steve Claggett in June, Teofimo Lopez has been desperately looking for an opponent. Just in the last few days, the Takeover has managed to call out Jaron Ennis, Gervonta Davis, and Terence Crawford, unsuccessfully of course. Arnold Barboza Jr was seen as a mandatory challenger for Teofimo Lopez’s WBO super lightweight title since he is the number 1 ranked under WBO. Just when it all seemed like Lopez may have his next opponent fixed in Barboza Jr, a new rival has taken his spot. Who is it?

After his win over Josh Taylor and Regis Prograis in May and October respectively, Jack Catterall has successfully made it up to the top of the IBF and WBO’s ranking in the super lightweight division. Now that El Gato is placed 3rd in the IBF and 2nd under WBO rankings, it has allowed him a shot at a title eliminator before eventually fighting for either title. As a result, Arnold Barboza Jr. will now have to face Jack Catterall instead of facing Teofimo Lopez.

Teofimo Lopez can’t catch a break

A recent post by EverythingBoxing revealed the story on their official X account. Their post read, “Catterall-Barboza could be double final eliminator.” The post further added, “IBF now joined the WBO in ordering a final eliminator between jack Catterall and Arnold Barboza, Eddie Hearn said. Winner mandatory for both Teofimo Lopez and Richard Hitchin’s World titles.”

The statement was from a conversation Eddie Hearn had a few days ago that was shared on Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel. When asked about the upcoming megafights Matchroom is eyeing, the British Promoter revealed, “Jack Catterall has now been ordered not just now with a WBO final eliminator but now an IBF final eliminator against Barboza and we’ve agreed. We’ve signed. Jack signed his part of the deal.” He further added that they are now in negotiation with the Golden Boy Promotions and hoping Barboza would sign his end of the deal thereby setting the fight up for a February 15 showdown. He was positive regarding the updates and added, “That’s gonna be a big fight for the division now.”

The outcome of the competition is important for both Teofimo Lopez and the new IBF super lightweight champion Richardson Hitchins, as the winner will choose who to face next between Lopez and Hitchins. However, there’s a chance that the Lancashire native, if he wins, may face Hitchins. And what is the reason behind it?

Since Eddie Hearn is the promoter for both Hitchins and Catterall, there’s a greater chance of them facing each other before an eventual unification bout with Teofimo Lopez. And this means Lopez will be sidelined for the next few months if Catterall wins against Barboza.

Richardson Hitchins eyeing Jack Catterall vs. Arnold Barboza winner

After the news came out from EverythingBoxing, Richardson Hitchins took to X to warn Jack Catterall. The new IBF champion stated, “@jack-catt93 I’ll see you soon Pu**y.” However, the 31-year-old didn’t respond to Hitchins. But when the news of the title eliminator emerged, he boldly predicted on X, “I will fight 3 times in 2025 and I will become World Champion. Appreciate all your support it means the world to me ❤️.“

The super lightweight division is quickly heating up with compelling matchups and title eliminators that could shape the future of the division. Jack Catterall’s ascent through the ranks has positioned him as a central figure in the title race, with Arnold Barboza now standing as his immediate hurdle. Meanwhile, Teofimo Lopez finds himself in a waiting game, potentially sidelined as other fighters compete for mandatory positions. Richardson Hitchins’ fiery challenge adds further intrigue to the mix, setting the stage for a year of intense battles in 2025.

Boxing fans can anticipate pivotal outcomes in the coming months, with rivalries and alliances among promoters shaping the trajectory of this competitive division. Will Catterall’s ambition lead him to undisputed glory, or will Barboza and Hitchins throw a wrench in his plans?