Teofimo Lopez Exposes Rolly Romero’s Weakness: “Pitbull Can Take Advantage of That”

After various twists and turns involving Ryan Garcia, boxing sensation Rolly Romero stupefied the boxing world as he announced his plans to ditch Garcia to fight Isaac Cruz instead. Romero is now planning to defend his WBA super lightweight championship against Cruz who is moving up from the 135-pound division for the upcoming fight. However, this fight offers more than what meets the eye, according to Teofimo Lopez.

The 12-round, 140-pound title fight will be held on March 30 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. As the fight still has some time left, the fans are left divided about their pick for the winner. However, boxing champion Teofimo Lopez, who has an upcoming fight on February 8, has revealed a detail that may influence the outcome of the showdown and could also be advantageous for ‘Pitbull’.

Teofimo Lopez criticizes Rolly Romero and Isaac Cruz fight poster

In an interview with FightHubTV, Teofimo Lopez shed light on undisclosed back and neck issues haunting Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero. Lopez contends that Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, could capitalize on these vulnerabilities during their upcoming bout. Although Rolly (15-1, 13 KOs) hasn’t confirmed the injury, Teofimo’s claim adds intrigue to their contest next month.

Lopez, emphasizing Romero’s physical challenges, disclosed, “Rolando Romero is coming off a really bad back injury, you know… He got a lot of back problems, a lot of neck problems.” Expressing his insider knowledge, Lopez provocatively urged, “Maybe Pitbull can take advantage of that when they fight each other.”

In evaluating the bout’s promotion, Lopez criticized the billing on the banner, stating, “It should just be Romero vs. Cruz. I don’t think it should be Rolly vs. Pitbull.” Transitioning to the broader context, he even acknowledged the influx of competitors to the 140-pound category, attributing the credit to himself and his victory over Josh Taylor.

Interestingly, Lopez has also taken shots at Terence Crawford for wanting to fight Canelo Álvarez.

Lopez shares his thoughts on Alvarez vs. Crawford

Teofimo Lopez is gearing up for a clash against Jamaine Ortiz on February 8, yet he’s not shying away from expressing his desire for a face-off with the pound-for-pound great, Terence Crawford. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Lopez highlighted Crawford’s tendency to target weaker or injured opponents, stating, “Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford likes to go after guys that are not the same, or they’re injured.”

Going beyond the verbal jabs, Lopez suggested that Crawford’s interest in fighting Canelo Álvarez stems from the belief that the latter is on the decline. “Canelo Alvarez is on the decline. Saul – whether he likes it or not – it is the truth,” asserted Lopez. In a subsequent YouTube video, Lopez reiterated his stance.

Lopez, not one to mince words, criticized Canelo’s physical condition, stating, “We can see it! [Canelo is] getting heavier, getting hefty, real flat-footed. He’s not as light as before.” Directing his attention back to Crawford, Lopez challenged him directly, questioning his choice of opponents and daring him to face a fresh and new contender like himself.

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“You just fight soft guys that make it seem like they’re tough guys just so that you can be the guy, but he’s no guy. Why can’t you fight me? I’m fresh, and I’m new, and I’m clean,” declared Lopez. Despite insinuating a decline in Canelo’s prowess, Lopez asserted, “And even with the decline, he still won’t beat [Canelo Alvarez]. Too strong & too big!”

What do you think about Lopez’s bold claims against Crawford? Do you agree with him? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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