“I’m Glad Ortiz Didn’t Win”: Fans Rally Behind Teofimo Lopez’s Deadpool Statement Amid Controversy Around Decision Win

Given how he outclassed Josh Taylor last year, most expected Teofimo Lopez to hand over a boxing clinic on February 8. Sadly, the fight against Jamaine Ortiz at the Michelob ULTRA Arena proved anything but that. Instead, the welterweight champion faced severe censure across the board for his performance. Some reportedly questioned the wisdom of awarding him the victory. But notwithstanding the issues surrounding his win, his steadfast fans still support him wholeheartedly.

Early today, he shared a few photos that show him at the fight venue and walking towards the dressing room. But what might have caught the attention of most fans would have been the attire. It almost resembled Marvel Comics’ ‘Deadpool’. Lopez wrote, “Deadpool never dies.” It was as if the fans were waiting for a sign. Soon, a river of comments formed. As is their wont, many naysayers wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to dismiss the world champion for his latest outing.

Teofimo Lopez: A Match that was almost ‘Take(n)over 

It became apparent to many that Teofimo Lopez was having difficulty finding his footing against Jamaine Ortiz. The latter played a well-thought-out game with discipline that nullified Lopez’s offense. But it doesn’t mean that ‘The Technician’ displayed superior skills.

Teofimo Lopez’s exasperation only increased when he couldn’t get Ortiz to meet him head-on. During the in-ring post-fight interview, he said, “Hey listen, I tried my best to do what I can for the people. I even try to box going backwards, and they did not want to commit to show you people.”

Perhaps a lack of proper one-on-one engagement during the fight could have augmented conflicting views, especially when the results came. It was apparent that the judges favored Lopez for being more aggressive. Though it’s a different matter of fact that he had to run around the ring to muster those scores.

Unwavering Fan Support

Teofimo Lopez has a clear reign in the hearts of his fans. Most urged him to press forward and not get bogged down by the setbacks.

Lamenting that boxers who run inside the ring are spoiling the sport, the following fan seemed happy that Jamaine Ortiz didn’t win the fight. They said, “Im glad Ortiz didn’t win. Running is what is killing the sport. Those kind of fighters should never win.”

Calling out ‘The Technician’ as one of the lamest challengers, the next fan asked if anyone came across a boxer whose entire ring strategy hovered around running! “Ortiz is the worst contender for a title. When do you see a contender base his strategy based on running around?” the fan stated.

Urging Teofimo Lopez to bash on regardless, this fan mentioned that those who dwell on hatred will continue to do so. They said, “Let emm hate Teo that don’t stop nothing.” Then, contemplating Lopez in full control, this follower bestowed the title of ‘people’s champion’, upon the welterweight title holder. The follower who seemingly visited the fight venue mentioned that both the outing and the match provided great value.

They said, “TAKEOVER in full effect! You da man, Teo. The trip & fight was well worth it. The world champ & the peoples champ.” But this user somehow wanted Lopez to prove himself by knocking out Subriel Matias: “You gotta KO Matias now to redeem yourself.”

Teofimo Lopez can take big pride in having a loyal fan base. They continue to support him even when the chips are down. But given the fact that ‘The Takeover is looking at the bigger picture, some feel he might have to sort his playbook.

Read More: Bill Haney Eyes Teofimo Lopez “Grudge Match” for His Son While Predicting His Fate Against Jamaine Ortiz

Did you see the Lopez-Ortiz clash? If so, what’s your take on the final decision? Please share your views with us in the comments below.

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