‘Going to take it right to him’: Teofimo Lopez plans to set the tone against Rolly Romero
Teofimo Lopez says he’s focused and motivated to perform at his best against Rolly Romero.
Here’s some excerpts of what he had to say.
Teofimo on how he’ll approach his fight with Rolly
“Honestly, just boxing his head off. Getting back to my fundamentals and my basics, that’s really what I’m focused on in this upcoming match with Rolly. I know they say he’s a heavy hitter. We got into the ring a few times sparring but nothing’s like a real fight so I look forward to a real showdown with him.”
On the drastic style difference he faces, going from Shakur Stevenson to Rolly
“A true champion can adapt to anything I think with Rolly, he definitely improved and he is awkward at times. He throws his punches in weird ways but I think that’s what makes for an exciting fight, an exciting return for me…I think this right here leads to the winner taking on the winner of Ryan Garcia vs Conor Benn and that’s what we’re looking forward to.”
On plans to take advantage of Rolly’s relative inactivity
“Absolutely. We’re going to take it right to him. I think the same is going to apply to Rolly, him being out a year time frame so I think we’re just going to go in there and take advantage of the opportunity he’s been out the ring for I’d say over a year now. So I think all the cards are laid out for me to take over.”
On the decision to keep his father in his corner after he got so much criticism for his lack of instruction in the Shakur loss
“I think the whole purpose there was there’s no need to take away, but just add. So we’re adding a trainer of mine that I grew up with that taught me the fundamentals as a kid…I think that’s all I’m doing, is just adding to the mix. I think my father knows how to express to the other trainers coming into this camp now how I operate, how I work, what’s best for me, and what is not. I mean, he can instruct them the best way and they can just mold together.
“I think my father needs more voices in the corner to speak for him and also to see different and get on that same road. I wouldn’t be Teofimo, I wouldn’t be that person — obviously I got to get in that ring and show up every time — but it’s good, man. I’ve had my moments of failure and it’s alright for a coach to have the same. It is. I think if this occurs again, then there’s something I definitely got to reassess and see what I can do best in my career.
“I think Vergil Hunter would be another one would be great for my style. I need guys that are technical, that can adapt to my style because I’m not only athletic but I can box, I can fight, and there’s all ranges of that. So, my father just had a very terrible, off-night just due to things of his bad habits. But these are things we’re fixing. he’s a better man now from it. Sometimes people just need a reality check and I think him and myself got one that night.”
Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Signed with DAZN, on his own. No promoter.
Just a broadcast deal.
Just a broadcast deal.
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
HBO routinely signed fighters directly to the network. Now DAZN doing same. Big move to show DAZN’s commitment to boxing as it bolsters relationship with key fighters directly
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Very big news.
Being told that the signing of Teofimo Lopez & Devin Haney to direct DAZN contracts were a direct dead on shot at @EddieHearn by @DAZNBoxing Excutives, & was done for multiple reasons that I will not discuss or disclose publicly. But know this, Eddie Hearn has absolutely fallen out of favor with the DAZN Boxing head honcho's.
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
‘He’s like my little brother’: Rolly Romero and Teofimo Lopez discuss personal relationship ahead of title fight
Teofimo Lopez and Rolly Romero discuss their upcoming title fight.
Here’s some excerpts of what both had to say with the full video interview in the link at the top.
Rolly on how he’d describe his relationship with Teofimo
“He’s like my little brother. We spent a lot of time together, a lot of time. Not as of recently but we did spend a lot of time. Life does go on. He has his family, he has his kids, everything, I’m focusing on my own stuff.”
Teofimo on if he ever thought he’d be fighting Rolly
“We spoke on it…but we’re here. He’s the champ, and I want to thank the champ for giving me the opportunity to get in the ring with him and try to take over.”
Rolly on fighting Teofimo
“I got to say thank you, too. You helped me out a lot, and you know how you helped me out a lot. I remember after he beat Nakatani, I remember I was in a bad place financially, I remember Teo gave me $5k out of nowhere. He just calls me randomly…out of nowhere he just sends me $5k. That money did so much for me. I can’t really say anything bad, you know.”
Rolly on whether it will be hard to try to hurt a friend
“A boxing fight’s a boxing fight. A sparring session’s a sparring session…Whatever happens is what God’s will is. If it’s God’s will, Teofimo will be world champion. If it’s God’s will, I will remain champion, continue on with my legacy, too.”
Teofimo on what he remembers from sparring Rolly
“One thing I remember about Rolly is he doesn’t quit. And those damn elbows. But other than that he’s grown, he’s done much better now in his career. So this is definitely not a walk in the park for me.
“Don’t sleep on this motherf-cker. He’s playing this other character right now. For sure…And now he’s the super WBA world champion, he is the guy, and looking over here to do what I can on my side and just make boxing great again.”
Rolly on Teofimo’s performance against Shakur Stevenson
“Teo shouldn’t have been at that weight class no more. He’s a welterweight. That’s that.”
Teofimo on whether he’s concerned about getting elbowed from Rolly
“It’s a fight, man. I know in the past I’ve said certain things but I try to stick to the rules of the sport. But whatever happens that night, happens. I just got to be aware. He’s a smart individual and his inside game is pretty good. So just all those things we just got to train and perfect.”
Teofimo’s general thoughts on fighting Rolly
“You’re setting a good example right now. What you did right now is took the fight knowing the past over 10 years of a relationship of friendship in boxing and you’re putting it on display on August 22 to show the world ‘yes, we can be friends but when it comes to boxing and business you got to make the fights happen no matter what.’”
Rolly on why he didn’t make the fight with Devin Haney
“Dude, are you really asking me that question? So we sent him an offer, he said it was a lucrative offer that made sense for him and his team, stalled it out for a whole month and then literally said we ducked him and out-priced ourselves after he said we gave him a lucrative offer.”
Rolly on what this fight represents
“This is a legacy fight for both of us. I believe Teo is already in the Hall of Fame…It will solidify me in the Hall of Fame, for sure.”
Teofimo Lopez and Rolly Romero discuss their upcoming title fight.
Here’s some excerpts of what both had to say with the full video interview in the link at the top.
Rolly on how he’d describe his relationship with Teofimo
“He’s like my little brother. We spent a lot of time together, a lot of time. Not as of recently but we did spend a lot of time. Life does go on. He has his family, he has his kids, everything, I’m focusing on my own stuff.”
Teofimo on if he ever thought he’d be fighting Rolly
“We spoke on it…but we’re here. He’s the champ, and I want to thank the champ for giving me the opportunity to get in the ring with him and try to take over.”
Rolly on fighting Teofimo
“I got to say thank you, too. You helped me out a lot, and you know how you helped me out a lot. I remember after he beat Nakatani, I remember I was in a bad place financially, I remember Teo gave me $5k out of nowhere. He just calls me randomly…out of nowhere he just sends me $5k. That money did so much for me. I can’t really say anything bad, you know.”
Rolly on whether it will be hard to try to hurt a friend
“A boxing fight’s a boxing fight. A sparring session’s a sparring session…Whatever happens is what God’s will is. If it’s God’s will, Teofimo will be world champion. If it’s God’s will, I will remain champion, continue on with my legacy, too.”
Teofimo on what he remembers from sparring Rolly
“One thing I remember about Rolly is he doesn’t quit. And those damn elbows. But other than that he’s grown, he’s done much better now in his career. So this is definitely not a walk in the park for me.
“Don’t sleep on this motherf-cker. He’s playing this other character right now. For sure…And now he’s the super WBA world champion, he is the guy, and looking over here to do what I can on my side and just make boxing great again.”
Rolly on Teofimo’s performance against Shakur Stevenson
“Teo shouldn’t have been at that weight class no more. He’s a welterweight. That’s that.”
Teofimo on whether he’s concerned about getting elbowed from Rolly
“It’s a fight, man. I know in the past I’ve said certain things but I try to stick to the rules of the sport. But whatever happens that night, happens. I just got to be aware. He’s a smart individual and his inside game is pretty good. So just all those things we just got to train and perfect.”
Teofimo’s general thoughts on fighting Rolly
“You’re setting a good example right now. What you did right now is took the fight knowing the past over 10 years of a relationship of friendship in boxing and you’re putting it on display on August 22 to show the world ‘yes, we can be friends but when it comes to boxing and business you got to make the fights happen no matter what.’”
Rolly on why he didn’t make the fight with Devin Haney
“Dude, are you really asking me that question? So we sent him an offer, he said it was a lucrative offer that made sense for him and his team, stalled it out for a whole month and then literally said we ducked him and out-priced ourselves after he said we gave him a lucrative offer.”
Rolly on what this fight represents
“This is a legacy fight for both of us. I believe Teo is already in the Hall of Fame…It will solidify me in the Hall of Fame, for sure.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Teofimo Lopez regrets remaining at 140 pounds for too long
Teofimo Lopez has now made the same mistake twice.
Shortly after his upset defeat to George Kambosos in November 2021, Lopez claimed that one of the reasons for that split-decision loss was overstaying his time in the lightweight division.
Fast forward a few years later, and Lopez believes he did it again. The 28-year-old former undisputed 135-pound kingpin lost his Ring and WBO 140-pound belts to Shakur Stevenson via wide unanimous decision in the main event of “The Ring 6” on January 31 at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Instead of remaining in the junior welterweight division, Lopez moved up seven pounds. He’ll challenge WBA belt-holder, Rolando “Rolly” Romero on August 22 in another main event DAZN will stream live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Although he’s never fought this high up in weight, Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) is excited about how he’ll feel with the extra pounds.
“I’ll just be more comfortable in there,” Lopez said during the newest episode of the ‘Mr. Verzace Podcast’ when asked what he expects at his new weight. “I think there’s a point where if your body’s not in it, your mind won’t be as well. At junior welterweight it was great, but I think I stayed there for too long.
“I just tried to make the best fights happen. To be real, I did not need to take my previous fight, but I did it for the fans. I realize that when I do things for the fans, it nips me in the bud a little bit. I did that for Kambosos and for this one [the Stevenson fight]. When I do what I’m destined to do, it’s a lot better for me in my career. Welterweight has just been screaming out loud.”
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) might be an underdog, but the hard-hitting North Las Vegas native upset the odds when they placed him in a similar role against Ryan Garcia in May 2025.
Romero dropped his man in the second round, before cruising to a unanimous decision in the main event of The Ring’s card at Times Square in New York.
In no way, shape, or form is Lopez overlooking Romero. However, the loquacious contender has a familiar goal in mind and is determined to achieve it.
“This is my road to undisputed once again,” Lopez said. “The first stop is Rolando Romero on August 22.”
Teofimo Lopez has now made the same mistake twice.
Shortly after his upset defeat to George Kambosos in November 2021, Lopez claimed that one of the reasons for that split-decision loss was overstaying his time in the lightweight division.
Fast forward a few years later, and Lopez believes he did it again. The 28-year-old former undisputed 135-pound kingpin lost his Ring and WBO 140-pound belts to Shakur Stevenson via wide unanimous decision in the main event of “The Ring 6” on January 31 at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Instead of remaining in the junior welterweight division, Lopez moved up seven pounds. He’ll challenge WBA belt-holder, Rolando “Rolly” Romero on August 22 in another main event DAZN will stream live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Although he’s never fought this high up in weight, Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) is excited about how he’ll feel with the extra pounds.
“I’ll just be more comfortable in there,” Lopez said during the newest episode of the ‘Mr. Verzace Podcast’ when asked what he expects at his new weight. “I think there’s a point where if your body’s not in it, your mind won’t be as well. At junior welterweight it was great, but I think I stayed there for too long.
“I just tried to make the best fights happen. To be real, I did not need to take my previous fight, but I did it for the fans. I realize that when I do things for the fans, it nips me in the bud a little bit. I did that for Kambosos and for this one [the Stevenson fight]. When I do what I’m destined to do, it’s a lot better for me in my career. Welterweight has just been screaming out loud.”
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) might be an underdog, but the hard-hitting North Las Vegas native upset the odds when they placed him in a similar role against Ryan Garcia in May 2025.
Romero dropped his man in the second round, before cruising to a unanimous decision in the main event of The Ring’s card at Times Square in New York.
In no way, shape, or form is Lopez overlooking Romero. However, the loquacious contender has a familiar goal in mind and is determined to achieve it.
“This is my road to undisputed once again,” Lopez said. “The first stop is Rolando Romero on August 22.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
ProBoxTV vet Francisco Veron faces Yoenli Hernandez in Romero-Lopez Co-Main
Three-time ProBoxTV alumnae Francisco Daniel Veron of Argentina will face undefeated Cuban Yoenli Hernandez in the 10-round middleweight co-main event of the Rolly Romero vs. Teofimo Lopez "Put up or Shut up" PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, August 22, live on DAZN and Prime Video (8 pm ET/5 pm PT) from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The Veron-Hernandez fight is one of three announced for the event’s undercard.
In addition, The Dominican Republic’s Victor Santillan, 16-2 (7 KOs), defends his Interim WBA junior-featherweight title for the first time against No. 4-ranked challenger Antonio Russell, 21-1 (13 KOs), and WBA 14- and WBC No. 15-ranked Carlos Utria, 14-0 (11 KOs), of Colombia makes his US fighting debut in a 10-round junior-welterweight battle against Israel Mercado, 13-1-2 (7 KOs), of California.
Veron, 17-1-1 (10 KOs), of Villa Libertador, Buenos Aires, is currently riding a three-fight, ProBoxTV-televised winning streak, most recently scoring a unanimous decision over countryman Raul Garcia in April. Before that he notched unanimous decisions over gatekeepers Roiman Villa and Vladimir Hernandez in separate 2025 broadcasts.
The 27-year-old Veron also owns a draw against current IBF No. 4-ranked middleweight contender Jahi Tucker. His only career loss is a close decision to Brandon Adams in 2024.
“This is one of the toughest fights of my career, but we’re well prepared for anything he brings,” said Veron. “I’m here to face the best and I’m not ducking anyone. We’re going to give people a lot to talk about when this fight is over. I’m coming to represent my Argentine people on August 22.”
Impressively ranked WBA and WBO No. 1, WBC No. 2, and IBF No. 9 after just 10 fights, Hernandez, 10-0 (9 KOs), of Camaguey, Cuba and now living in Providence, Rhode Island, had a long and distinguished amateur career before turning pro in 2022.
The fast-tracking 29-year-old Hernandez scored a shutout unanimous 10-round decision over Kyrone Davis in May 2025, dropping him in round two, as well as a fourth-round TKO over former world title challenger Terrell Gausha in his most recent ring appearance in March of this year.
“I’m preparing very hard for this fight, because I know that I have an extremely tough opponent in front of me,” said Hernandez. “I have to continue to train that hard fight after fight and prove to everyone what I’m capable of. You can expect to see more of the same from me on August 22 in Las Vegas.”
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, in association with Takeover Promotions.
Three-time ProBoxTV alumnae Francisco Daniel Veron of Argentina will face undefeated Cuban Yoenli Hernandez in the 10-round middleweight co-main event of the Rolly Romero vs. Teofimo Lopez "Put up or Shut up" PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, August 22, live on DAZN and Prime Video (8 pm ET/5 pm PT) from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The Veron-Hernandez fight is one of three announced for the event’s undercard.
In addition, The Dominican Republic’s Victor Santillan, 16-2 (7 KOs), defends his Interim WBA junior-featherweight title for the first time against No. 4-ranked challenger Antonio Russell, 21-1 (13 KOs), and WBA 14- and WBC No. 15-ranked Carlos Utria, 14-0 (11 KOs), of Colombia makes his US fighting debut in a 10-round junior-welterweight battle against Israel Mercado, 13-1-2 (7 KOs), of California.
Veron, 17-1-1 (10 KOs), of Villa Libertador, Buenos Aires, is currently riding a three-fight, ProBoxTV-televised winning streak, most recently scoring a unanimous decision over countryman Raul Garcia in April. Before that he notched unanimous decisions over gatekeepers Roiman Villa and Vladimir Hernandez in separate 2025 broadcasts.
The 27-year-old Veron also owns a draw against current IBF No. 4-ranked middleweight contender Jahi Tucker. His only career loss is a close decision to Brandon Adams in 2024.
“This is one of the toughest fights of my career, but we’re well prepared for anything he brings,” said Veron. “I’m here to face the best and I’m not ducking anyone. We’re going to give people a lot to talk about when this fight is over. I’m coming to represent my Argentine people on August 22.”
Impressively ranked WBA and WBO No. 1, WBC No. 2, and IBF No. 9 after just 10 fights, Hernandez, 10-0 (9 KOs), of Camaguey, Cuba and now living in Providence, Rhode Island, had a long and distinguished amateur career before turning pro in 2022.
The fast-tracking 29-year-old Hernandez scored a shutout unanimous 10-round decision over Kyrone Davis in May 2025, dropping him in round two, as well as a fourth-round TKO over former world title challenger Terrell Gausha in his most recent ring appearance in March of this year.
“I’m preparing very hard for this fight, because I know that I have an extremely tough opponent in front of me,” said Hernandez. “I have to continue to train that hard fight after fight and prove to everyone what I’m capable of. You can expect to see more of the same from me on August 22 in Las Vegas.”
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, in association with Takeover Promotions.
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Yoenli Hernandez vs. Francisco Daniel Veron added to Romero-Lopez card
A trio of supporting scraps was announced Thursday for the August 22 show in Las Vegas featuring a bout between WBA welterweight champion Rolando Romero and Teofimo Lopez Jr.
In the co-main event slot, Yoenli Hernandez (10-0, 9 KOs) will meet Francisco Daniel Veron (17-1-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight matchup.
Setting up the fight between Hernandez and Veron will be a 12-round junior featherweight clash, as WBA interim titleholder Victor Santillan (16-2, 7 KOs) will defend his belt for the first time against Antonio Russell (21-1, 13 KOs).
Kicking off the pay-per-view show will be PBC's latest signee Carlos Utria (14-0, 11 KOs), who claimed the WBC Grand Prix at 140 pounds last time out in December, taking on Israel Mercado (13-1-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round junior welterweight contest.
The event will take place at T-Mobile Arena as part of a DAZN and Prime Video Pay-Per-View event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Hernandez, The Ring's No. 2-rated middleweight, is the most intriguing fighter on the undercard. The 29-year-old is a power-punching Cuban who's been wiping out the competition with relative ease since turning pro four years ago. Hernandez, who's also ranked No. 1 by the WBA and WBO, and No. 2 by the WBC, stopped Terrell Gausha inside four rounds last time out in March.
“I’m preparing very hard for this fight, because I know that I have an extremely tough opponent in front of me,” Hernandez said in a statement. “I have to continue to train that hard fight after fight and prove to everyone what I’m capable of. You can expect to see more of the same from me on August 22 in Las Vegas.”
Veron, a 27-year-old from Argentina, will see if his recent run beating Raul Garcia, Roiman Villa and Vladimir Hernandez has him equipped for battle against Hernandez. Veron also has a draw against Jahi Tucker and a loss against Brandon Adams.
“This is one of the toughest fights of my career, but we’re well prepared for anything he brings,” Veron said in a statement. “I’m here to face the best, and I’m not ducking anyone. We’re going to give people a lot to talk about when this fight is over.”
A trio of supporting scraps was announced Thursday for the August 22 show in Las Vegas featuring a bout between WBA welterweight champion Rolando Romero and Teofimo Lopez Jr.
In the co-main event slot, Yoenli Hernandez (10-0, 9 KOs) will meet Francisco Daniel Veron (17-1-1, 10 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight matchup.
Setting up the fight between Hernandez and Veron will be a 12-round junior featherweight clash, as WBA interim titleholder Victor Santillan (16-2, 7 KOs) will defend his belt for the first time against Antonio Russell (21-1, 13 KOs).
Kicking off the pay-per-view show will be PBC's latest signee Carlos Utria (14-0, 11 KOs), who claimed the WBC Grand Prix at 140 pounds last time out in December, taking on Israel Mercado (13-1-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round junior welterweight contest.
The event will take place at T-Mobile Arena as part of a DAZN and Prime Video Pay-Per-View event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Hernandez, The Ring's No. 2-rated middleweight, is the most intriguing fighter on the undercard. The 29-year-old is a power-punching Cuban who's been wiping out the competition with relative ease since turning pro four years ago. Hernandez, who's also ranked No. 1 by the WBA and WBO, and No. 2 by the WBC, stopped Terrell Gausha inside four rounds last time out in March.
“I’m preparing very hard for this fight, because I know that I have an extremely tough opponent in front of me,” Hernandez said in a statement. “I have to continue to train that hard fight after fight and prove to everyone what I’m capable of. You can expect to see more of the same from me on August 22 in Las Vegas.”
Veron, a 27-year-old from Argentina, will see if his recent run beating Raul Garcia, Roiman Villa and Vladimir Hernandez has him equipped for battle against Hernandez. Veron also has a draw against Jahi Tucker and a loss against Brandon Adams.
“This is one of the toughest fights of my career, but we’re well prepared for anything he brings,” Veron said in a statement. “I’m here to face the best, and I’m not ducking anyone. We’re going to give people a lot to talk about when this fight is over.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
'I'M A BIG DUDE': ROMERO EXPECTS JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT MOVE SOON
Rolando “Rolly” Romero hasn’t been at 147 pounds for long, but he’s already thinking about his next weight class.
“I like welterweight, but I’ll probably be at 154 soon, though,” Romero said during a recent episode of the “Mr. Verzace Podcast,” hosted by Ring CEO Rick Reeno.
Romero, 30, has just one fight under his belt at the welterweight limit. Still, it’s easily the biggest win of his career, a points victory over Ryan Garcia in May 2025 at Times Square in New York to win the WBA’s secondary 147-pound title. He was eventually elevated to full champion after Jaron Ennis moved up in weight.
Although he is already contemplating another weight class jump, Romero has some business to attend to first. The hard-hitting belt-holder will put his crown on the line against Teofimo Lopez on August 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (DAZN Pay-Per-View; DAZN Ultimate).
For Romero, he promises guaranteed action, but he isn’t sure how much longer he’ll stick around the 147-pound welterweight limit.
As he continues to go through a grueling training camp to take on his good friend, Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) looked back on his time in lower weight classes. Having previously won belts at 135 and 140 pounds in his career, the North Las Vegas native isn’t sure how he used to make those weight cuts.
Lopez, meanwhile, will make his welterweight debut against Romero.
He has won belts in two weight classes as well, but he is coming off a wide unanimous-decision defeat against Shakur Stevenson in the main event of “The Ring 6” on January 31 at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Romero, who has known Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) since they were kids, is amazed by how his upcoming opponent also used to make those lower weight classes.
“I was dying to make those weight classes,” Romero said. “I’m a big dude. I’m muscle dense, you know? Teo’s muscle dense, too. We take so much out of ourselves to make weight. It’s not like we’re naturally skinny dudes or any of that stuff.”
Rolando “Rolly” Romero hasn’t been at 147 pounds for long, but he’s already thinking about his next weight class.
“I like welterweight, but I’ll probably be at 154 soon, though,” Romero said during a recent episode of the “Mr. Verzace Podcast,” hosted by Ring CEO Rick Reeno.
Romero, 30, has just one fight under his belt at the welterweight limit. Still, it’s easily the biggest win of his career, a points victory over Ryan Garcia in May 2025 at Times Square in New York to win the WBA’s secondary 147-pound title. He was eventually elevated to full champion after Jaron Ennis moved up in weight.
Although he is already contemplating another weight class jump, Romero has some business to attend to first. The hard-hitting belt-holder will put his crown on the line against Teofimo Lopez on August 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (DAZN Pay-Per-View; DAZN Ultimate).
For Romero, he promises guaranteed action, but he isn’t sure how much longer he’ll stick around the 147-pound welterweight limit.
As he continues to go through a grueling training camp to take on his good friend, Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) looked back on his time in lower weight classes. Having previously won belts at 135 and 140 pounds in his career, the North Las Vegas native isn’t sure how he used to make those weight cuts.
Lopez, meanwhile, will make his welterweight debut against Romero.
He has won belts in two weight classes as well, but he is coming off a wide unanimous-decision defeat against Shakur Stevenson in the main event of “The Ring 6” on January 31 at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Romero, who has known Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) since they were kids, is amazed by how his upcoming opponent also used to make those lower weight classes.
“I was dying to make those weight classes,” Romero said. “I’m a big dude. I’m muscle dense, you know? Teo’s muscle dense, too. We take so much out of ourselves to make weight. It’s not like we’re naturally skinny dudes or any of that stuff.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
‘We’ve been really technical with this camp’: Teofimo Lopez eager to show improvements against Rolly Romero
Teofimo Lopez talks about his upcoming title fight with Rolly Romero.
Teofimo Lopez takes some time to catch up and discuss his ongoing training camp as he prepares for a welterweight title fight against Rolly Romero. Here, Teofimo explains how he’s taken lessons from past fights and has worked to improve on his deficiencies, and looks forward to demonstrating a better form in this upcoming fight. Check out some excerpts below.
Teofimo on how training camp has been for the Rolly fight
“Well, I’m feeling like a champ. That’s for sure. Camp’s been going great. We got sparring later today but we just been persistent, we’ve been consistent as well. We’re just focused on this one. My welterweight debut, I’m looking forward to taking over this division and it starts with Rolando Romero.”
On only having one stoppage since 2022
“I think that it’s comforting [that I’m moving up in weight]. I think mentally, I’m there when it comes to the physicality part. And I just can’t wait to express that on that night, fight night. So it’s been great, I feel much better, and I’m excited for everyone to tune in.
On how he thinks he fits in at 147 considering he’ll be facing bigger, longer fighters
“I think I’m going to fill out just right. I think what I did in ‘35 at lightweight, that’s what’s going to occur, if not better at ‘47 now with experience. So I look forward to it. No matter the reach…if [Pacquiao] can do it, why not Teofimo?”
On the keys to facing longer-armed fighters
“Punch output. The punch output is going to really distract you to really get in there closer and step in. So those are the things that you see with Pacquiao…The more you blur them, the more they’re not going to notice you’re actually creeping up on them at the same time. So those are things that we’re really working on and looking to capitalize, for sure.”
On how he assesses Rolly’s style
“Roly is really focused on getting his shots in and making sure that he gets in counts, and it matters. And it makes the fighters himself think about coming in or not. But I don’t think that’s going to be the case here. I really don’t. I think those one, two potshots, those three potshots — I learned from my experience in the past fights.
“I didn’t start with the jab to close that gap [in the Stevenson fight]. So that’s really what we been working on. My left arm is killing me right now from the amount of jabs we’re working on but it’s to strengthen that arm and remind it ‘what is the most important punch in boxing?’ The jab. So by doing those things we’re going to capitalize on closing that gap. Without that jab I really can’t find the range of throwing that right hand or the uppercuts, right hooks, anything like that.
“So we’ve been really technical with this camp.”
On Rolly’s trainer Ismael Salas believing he’s an aging opponent
“His assessment is just on my previous fights and at 140. But I think they have a big surprise coming, for sure. I’m very hard on myself with regards to criticizing myself and what I need to do in my craft, so those things that he mentions, I make sure that those don’t occur on August 22.”
On the chances we get a dull fight because they’re actually friends and respectful of one another’s power
“No, I think we’re at a point now where I think he believes he’s better than me and I know I’m better than him, and we’re going to have to really have to show that on that fight night. So I don’t think it’s going to be one of those ‘being careful’ type of fights.
Teofimo Lopez talks about his upcoming title fight with Rolly Romero.
Teofimo Lopez takes some time to catch up and discuss his ongoing training camp as he prepares for a welterweight title fight against Rolly Romero. Here, Teofimo explains how he’s taken lessons from past fights and has worked to improve on his deficiencies, and looks forward to demonstrating a better form in this upcoming fight. Check out some excerpts below.
Teofimo on how training camp has been for the Rolly fight
“Well, I’m feeling like a champ. That’s for sure. Camp’s been going great. We got sparring later today but we just been persistent, we’ve been consistent as well. We’re just focused on this one. My welterweight debut, I’m looking forward to taking over this division and it starts with Rolando Romero.”
On only having one stoppage since 2022
“I think that it’s comforting [that I’m moving up in weight]. I think mentally, I’m there when it comes to the physicality part. And I just can’t wait to express that on that night, fight night. So it’s been great, I feel much better, and I’m excited for everyone to tune in.
On how he thinks he fits in at 147 considering he’ll be facing bigger, longer fighters
“I think I’m going to fill out just right. I think what I did in ‘35 at lightweight, that’s what’s going to occur, if not better at ‘47 now with experience. So I look forward to it. No matter the reach…if [Pacquiao] can do it, why not Teofimo?”
On the keys to facing longer-armed fighters
“Punch output. The punch output is going to really distract you to really get in there closer and step in. So those are the things that you see with Pacquiao…The more you blur them, the more they’re not going to notice you’re actually creeping up on them at the same time. So those are things that we’re really working on and looking to capitalize, for sure.”
On how he assesses Rolly’s style
“Roly is really focused on getting his shots in and making sure that he gets in counts, and it matters. And it makes the fighters himself think about coming in or not. But I don’t think that’s going to be the case here. I really don’t. I think those one, two potshots, those three potshots — I learned from my experience in the past fights.
“I didn’t start with the jab to close that gap [in the Stevenson fight]. So that’s really what we been working on. My left arm is killing me right now from the amount of jabs we’re working on but it’s to strengthen that arm and remind it ‘what is the most important punch in boxing?’ The jab. So by doing those things we’re going to capitalize on closing that gap. Without that jab I really can’t find the range of throwing that right hand or the uppercuts, right hooks, anything like that.
“So we’ve been really technical with this camp.”
On Rolly’s trainer Ismael Salas believing he’s an aging opponent
“His assessment is just on my previous fights and at 140. But I think they have a big surprise coming, for sure. I’m very hard on myself with regards to criticizing myself and what I need to do in my craft, so those things that he mentions, I make sure that those don’t occur on August 22.”
On the chances we get a dull fight because they’re actually friends and respectful of one another’s power
“No, I think we’re at a point now where I think he believes he’s better than me and I know I’m better than him, and we’re going to have to really have to show that on that fight night. So I don’t think it’s going to be one of those ‘being careful’ type of fights.
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Romero: Lopez fight better for boxing than facing Catterall
Rolando Romero has ruffled a few feathers by stiff-arming the mandatory challengers who were due for a shot at his WBA welterweight title.
After avoiding Shakram Giyasov and then Jack Catterall, Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) has finally zeroed in on a fight against Teofimo Lopez Jr. (22-2, 13 KOs) on August 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video Pay-Per-View event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Catterall (33-2, 14 KOs) is currently in position to face the winner of Romero-Lopez by November 19, following the Brit's victory over Giyasov in May.
Romero couldn't care less about Catterall's well-deserved shot, however, going as far as saying he wouldn’t recognize the Lancashire native if he was standing in front of him. Romero will get a chance to familiarize himself with Catterall, who plans on being ringside in Las Vegas pounding the table for his shot at the crown.
“I don’t know [what to say to Catterall]. That’s not my problem,” Romero told The Ring and other members of the media. "I am fighting Lopez, who beat both Josh Taylor and Arnold Barboza, the two dudes who beat Catterall."
"There is the [sanctioning body] process, and there are big fights. What’s better for boxing? What will make the sport of boxing bigger, truthfully? I do not care about any of that stuff. I care about the sport of boxing. I am a servant to boxing.
"Every fight I do, I make sure to give you guys the biggest fight I can possibly give. I put my life and health [on the line], and I don’t want anything in return other than to serve boxing. I'm just happy to be back in the ring. I miss boxing so much, you have no idea.”
Romero hasn't fought since May of last year, when he dropped Ryan Garcia and beat him by unanimous decision. Romero roamed around over the last year negotiating a rematch with Garcia as well as fights against Manny Pacquiao, Devin Haney, and Conor Benn to no avail, all while shunning calls from Giyasov and Catterall, The Ring's No. 3-ranked contender at 147 pounds.
Before signing off, Romero fired a general warning shot toward the welterweight division ahead of his fight against Lopez.
“Remember this: It's no fun when Rolly has the gun with the finger on the trigger and comes out blasting,” Romero said. “The game stops being fun the second Rolly comes back out. Everyone is happy when Rolly doesn't say a single word and goes quiet into hibernation, letting his kids argue. But once I get back in the picture and roast everybody, everyone starts getting quiet.”
Rolando Romero has ruffled a few feathers by stiff-arming the mandatory challengers who were due for a shot at his WBA welterweight title.
After avoiding Shakram Giyasov and then Jack Catterall, Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) has finally zeroed in on a fight against Teofimo Lopez Jr. (22-2, 13 KOs) on August 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video Pay-Per-View event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Catterall (33-2, 14 KOs) is currently in position to face the winner of Romero-Lopez by November 19, following the Brit's victory over Giyasov in May.
Romero couldn't care less about Catterall's well-deserved shot, however, going as far as saying he wouldn’t recognize the Lancashire native if he was standing in front of him. Romero will get a chance to familiarize himself with Catterall, who plans on being ringside in Las Vegas pounding the table for his shot at the crown.
“I don’t know [what to say to Catterall]. That’s not my problem,” Romero told The Ring and other members of the media. "I am fighting Lopez, who beat both Josh Taylor and Arnold Barboza, the two dudes who beat Catterall."
"There is the [sanctioning body] process, and there are big fights. What’s better for boxing? What will make the sport of boxing bigger, truthfully? I do not care about any of that stuff. I care about the sport of boxing. I am a servant to boxing.
"Every fight I do, I make sure to give you guys the biggest fight I can possibly give. I put my life and health [on the line], and I don’t want anything in return other than to serve boxing. I'm just happy to be back in the ring. I miss boxing so much, you have no idea.”
Romero hasn't fought since May of last year, when he dropped Ryan Garcia and beat him by unanimous decision. Romero roamed around over the last year negotiating a rematch with Garcia as well as fights against Manny Pacquiao, Devin Haney, and Conor Benn to no avail, all while shunning calls from Giyasov and Catterall, The Ring's No. 3-ranked contender at 147 pounds.
Before signing off, Romero fired a general warning shot toward the welterweight division ahead of his fight against Lopez.
“Remember this: It's no fun when Rolly has the gun with the finger on the trigger and comes out blasting,” Romero said. “The game stops being fun the second Rolly comes back out. Everyone is happy when Rolly doesn't say a single word and goes quiet into hibernation, letting his kids argue. But once I get back in the picture and roast everybody, everyone starts getting quiet.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Teofimo Lopez has new DAZN deal, and renewed bid to 'take over' the sport
Teofimo Lopez, incentivized by a trend-setting multi-fight deal with DAZN and the opportunity to become a three-division champion August 22, is positioning for another self-described “Takeover” of boxing.
In a Tuesday media workout at the Fortune Gym in Los Angeles, the 22-2 (13 KOs) Lopez asserted himself as a generational talent who might be coming off a loss to Shakur Stevenson, but foresees career-defining bouts ahead.
“I’m making the best fights possible for boxing,” Lopez told Boxing Scene. “I’m not going to sell my legacy for my glory. That’s why I went to DAZN. They started with ‘The Takeover,’ and whoever comes next, you’re welcome.”
While three-division welterweight champion Devin Haney followed Lopez’s lead by striking a union with DAZN, Lopez is launching his deal by moving up a division to meet the hard-punching WBA 147lbs champion Rolando Romero, 17-2 (13 KOs), of Las Vegas.
The pair headline a Prime Video/DAZN pay-per-view card at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Romero, a former interim lightweight and WBA 140lbs champion, says successfully defending his belt against Lopez, who has victories over three-division champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and former 140lbs undisputed champion Josh Taylor on his resume, will make Romero a Hall of Famer.
Lopez, meanwhile, says he needs to do more than defeat Romero to enter the Hall.
“No, I gotta keep going,” Lopez said. “I’m really locked in on certain things. I’ll let the people decide when I hang up my gloves if I’m a Hall of Famer.”
A betting favorite in the match, Lopez said that status doesn’t make sense to him, and he says Romero is underrated.
“I’m fighting a bigger puncher at 147. I’m making my debut at 147 … I’m taking the risk. No risk, no reward. My whole thing is staying locked in,” he said.
“[Romero’s underappreciated] on the skill side…but not on the stature. He’s a champion for a reason. He controls the pace and makes it his fight, and people overlook that.”
The DAZN association requires a better version of Lopez than what was seen January 31 in the wide scorecard loss to four-division champion Stevenson.
Lopez says he’s been in the gym since the defeat, dismissing public calls for him to split with his trainer-father Teofimo Lopez Snr and making an immediate decision by telling BS in February he was moving from 140lbs to welterweight.
He spent time training alongside Floyd Mayweather Jnr in Las Vegas.
“Work ethic and believing in yourself,” were the takeaways, Lopez said. “You’ve got to put a lot of faith and belief in yourself. First thing you’ve got to do is look in the mirror and talk great to yourself. Your biggest challenge is you in the mirror. He tells me every time. It’s a mentorship, and I respect him.”
Victory on August 22 likely moves Lopez to the winner of the September WBC welterweight title fight between champion Ryan Garcia and England’s Conor Benn.
“They’re a world champion and [top] challenger for a reason. Every fight at 147 will be some of my best and most challenging fights. Honestly, may the best man win,” Lopez said.
“I’m hearing Conor Benn will go up after this, it’ll be his last hurrah [at welterweight]. As of now, [the biggest welterweight fight] is the August 22 championship versus Rolando Romero.”
Teofimo Lopez, incentivized by a trend-setting multi-fight deal with DAZN and the opportunity to become a three-division champion August 22, is positioning for another self-described “Takeover” of boxing.
In a Tuesday media workout at the Fortune Gym in Los Angeles, the 22-2 (13 KOs) Lopez asserted himself as a generational talent who might be coming off a loss to Shakur Stevenson, but foresees career-defining bouts ahead.
“I’m making the best fights possible for boxing,” Lopez told Boxing Scene. “I’m not going to sell my legacy for my glory. That’s why I went to DAZN. They started with ‘The Takeover,’ and whoever comes next, you’re welcome.”
While three-division welterweight champion Devin Haney followed Lopez’s lead by striking a union with DAZN, Lopez is launching his deal by moving up a division to meet the hard-punching WBA 147lbs champion Rolando Romero, 17-2 (13 KOs), of Las Vegas.
The pair headline a Prime Video/DAZN pay-per-view card at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Romero, a former interim lightweight and WBA 140lbs champion, says successfully defending his belt against Lopez, who has victories over three-division champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and former 140lbs undisputed champion Josh Taylor on his resume, will make Romero a Hall of Famer.
Lopez, meanwhile, says he needs to do more than defeat Romero to enter the Hall.
“No, I gotta keep going,” Lopez said. “I’m really locked in on certain things. I’ll let the people decide when I hang up my gloves if I’m a Hall of Famer.”
A betting favorite in the match, Lopez said that status doesn’t make sense to him, and he says Romero is underrated.
“I’m fighting a bigger puncher at 147. I’m making my debut at 147 … I’m taking the risk. No risk, no reward. My whole thing is staying locked in,” he said.
“[Romero’s underappreciated] on the skill side…but not on the stature. He’s a champion for a reason. He controls the pace and makes it his fight, and people overlook that.”
The DAZN association requires a better version of Lopez than what was seen January 31 in the wide scorecard loss to four-division champion Stevenson.
Lopez says he’s been in the gym since the defeat, dismissing public calls for him to split with his trainer-father Teofimo Lopez Snr and making an immediate decision by telling BS in February he was moving from 140lbs to welterweight.
He spent time training alongside Floyd Mayweather Jnr in Las Vegas.
“Work ethic and believing in yourself,” were the takeaways, Lopez said. “You’ve got to put a lot of faith and belief in yourself. First thing you’ve got to do is look in the mirror and talk great to yourself. Your biggest challenge is you in the mirror. He tells me every time. It’s a mentorship, and I respect him.”
Victory on August 22 likely moves Lopez to the winner of the September WBC welterweight title fight between champion Ryan Garcia and England’s Conor Benn.
“They’re a world champion and [top] challenger for a reason. Every fight at 147 will be some of my best and most challenging fights. Honestly, may the best man win,” Lopez said.
“I’m hearing Conor Benn will go up after this, it’ll be his last hurrah [at welterweight]. As of now, [the biggest welterweight fight] is the August 22 championship versus Rolando Romero.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Teofimo Lopez on Rolly Romero: 'I'm just the better fighter'
Teofimo Lopez took over the Fortune Gym in Hollywood, California, on Tuesday for a media workout ahead of his welterweight debut August 22 against WBA champion Rolando Romero.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) and Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) will meet at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video pay-per-view event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Lopez engaged in an array of exercises and then met with the media to declare that he’s ready to rock Romero and become a three-division champion.
“I’m really healthy, focused and locked in for this fight,” Lopez said. “I’m excited for everything that’s to come. And right now, it’s the takeover. The man in the mirror [is the hardest fight for me at 147]. That’s all it is, man. I think my biggest advantage against Rolly is going to be that I’m just the better fighter.
“I’m fighting a big puncher at 147 and going up to that weight for the first time. We’re taking a risk, because it’s no risk, no reward. I’m just focusing on my objectives so I can come out victorious."
Lopez certainly has the edge, at least on paper, in the skills department against the hard-hitting Romero.
Oddsmakers like his chances, too. Lopez is listed as a -225 betting favorite and Romero is the +175 underdog, according to DraftKings.
But Romero, who typically brings a brawling style, proved he can mix things up as needed when he astutely outboxed and dropped Ryan Garcia during a unanimous-decision win last time out in May 2025.
“I think Rolly’s skills are underappreciated," Lopez said. "He controls the pace and makes it his fight, everyone overlooks that. But he’s not underrated on the stature side. He’s a world champion for a reason.”
Lopez, meanwhile, didn’t look so good during his most recent outing January 31, suffering a one-sided unanimous decision defeat against Shakur Stevenson. The loss ended a four-year, seven-fight run for Lopez at 140 pounds.
Lopez, a former Ring and unified lightweight and junior welterweight champion, already has wins against the likes of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor and could secure additional legacy-defining fights in a new weight class against WBO champion Devin Haney and WBC titleholder Ryan Garcia if he gets past Romero.
Lopez declared that he’s only interested in title unification fights to etch his name as the welterweight great of the era, a title previously held by Terence Crawford.
“I’m here to take over and become undisputed at 147 pounds,” Lopez said. “The welterweight division is in a great position right now.
“I’m just going to keep going forward in my career. I’m so locked in on continuing to achieve bigger and better things one fight at a time. The fans can decide my legacy when it’s all over."
Teofimo Lopez took over the Fortune Gym in Hollywood, California, on Tuesday for a media workout ahead of his welterweight debut August 22 against WBA champion Rolando Romero.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) and Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) will meet at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video pay-per-view event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
Lopez engaged in an array of exercises and then met with the media to declare that he’s ready to rock Romero and become a three-division champion.
“I’m really healthy, focused and locked in for this fight,” Lopez said. “I’m excited for everything that’s to come. And right now, it’s the takeover. The man in the mirror [is the hardest fight for me at 147]. That’s all it is, man. I think my biggest advantage against Rolly is going to be that I’m just the better fighter.
“I’m fighting a big puncher at 147 and going up to that weight for the first time. We’re taking a risk, because it’s no risk, no reward. I’m just focusing on my objectives so I can come out victorious."
Lopez certainly has the edge, at least on paper, in the skills department against the hard-hitting Romero.
Oddsmakers like his chances, too. Lopez is listed as a -225 betting favorite and Romero is the +175 underdog, according to DraftKings.
But Romero, who typically brings a brawling style, proved he can mix things up as needed when he astutely outboxed and dropped Ryan Garcia during a unanimous-decision win last time out in May 2025.
“I think Rolly’s skills are underappreciated," Lopez said. "He controls the pace and makes it his fight, everyone overlooks that. But he’s not underrated on the stature side. He’s a world champion for a reason.”
Lopez, meanwhile, didn’t look so good during his most recent outing January 31, suffering a one-sided unanimous decision defeat against Shakur Stevenson. The loss ended a four-year, seven-fight run for Lopez at 140 pounds.
Lopez, a former Ring and unified lightweight and junior welterweight champion, already has wins against the likes of Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor and could secure additional legacy-defining fights in a new weight class against WBO champion Devin Haney and WBC titleholder Ryan Garcia if he gets past Romero.
Lopez declared that he’s only interested in title unification fights to etch his name as the welterweight great of the era, a title previously held by Terence Crawford.
“I’m here to take over and become undisputed at 147 pounds,” Lopez said. “The welterweight division is in a great position right now.
“I’m just going to keep going forward in my career. I’m so locked in on continuing to achieve bigger and better things one fight at a time. The fans can decide my legacy when it’s all over."
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Rolly Romero: Teofimo Lopez will try to beat me ... unlike Ryan Garcia
Rolando Romero believes Teofimo Lopez presents a tougher tussle than Ryan Garcia.
"Rolly" Romero (17-2, 13 KOs), the WBA welterweight champion, will find out first hand if his proclamations are true on August 22 when he takes on Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
"Teo is always going to try to win. Teo has a million times more dog in him than Ryan Garcia," Romero told The Ring. "Teo will get cut and fight life or death. Teo previously fought with one lung [against George Kambosos]. Teo doesn't care. This is going to be a real dog fight. Teo will fight and do whatever he can to win, and I am going to do whatever I can to win."
Romero is coming in confident to the clash against Lopez despite a 15-month layoff. Romero last fought in May of last year and dropped Garcia in the second round and cruised to a unanimous decision win. Garcia looked lackluster and couldn't find an answer for the power-punching Romero's suddenly sound boxing skills.
"I bodied Ryan. He was scared. He was terrified. The one time he threw a punch, what happened?" Romero said. "You cannot disrespect Teofimo."
"The Takeover" Lopez, a 28-year-old from Brooklyn, New York, is a former Ring and unified lightweight and junior welterweight champion. Lopez last fought in January and suffered a lopsided unanimous decision loss to Shakur Stevenson.
Romero suggested he's not going to become the second coming of Stevenson.
"It's a different fight than how [Lopez] fought Shakur, who's not really a big puncher," Romero said. "Shakur is a natural technician. I am not going to go and try to take from Shakur's book. Shakur had an incredible fight against Teofimo, but that's not my style. I'm not a slick, pure-boxing southpaw.
"I don't even know I had a jab. I ain't a boxer. I ain't a brawler. I ain't a counterpuncher. I don't know what I am. I don't even know how to describe myself."
Romero can certainly be described as a power player, however, in the 147-pound division. With fights against Garcia, Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz under his belt, the 30-year-old from Las Vegas continues to have a seat at the head of the table, taking significant fights.
The next encounter just so happens to be someone he calls a friend.
"I beat Teofimo, he still goes on to bigger fights at 147 anyways," Romero said. "Teofimo can beat all of the other guys at 147 and still become a world champion. Remember this though: I am always betting on me."
Rolando Romero believes Teofimo Lopez presents a tougher tussle than Ryan Garcia.
"Rolly" Romero (17-2, 13 KOs), the WBA welterweight champion, will find out first hand if his proclamations are true on August 22 when he takes on Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
"Teo is always going to try to win. Teo has a million times more dog in him than Ryan Garcia," Romero told The Ring. "Teo will get cut and fight life or death. Teo previously fought with one lung [against George Kambosos]. Teo doesn't care. This is going to be a real dog fight. Teo will fight and do whatever he can to win, and I am going to do whatever I can to win."
Romero is coming in confident to the clash against Lopez despite a 15-month layoff. Romero last fought in May of last year and dropped Garcia in the second round and cruised to a unanimous decision win. Garcia looked lackluster and couldn't find an answer for the power-punching Romero's suddenly sound boxing skills.
"I bodied Ryan. He was scared. He was terrified. The one time he threw a punch, what happened?" Romero said. "You cannot disrespect Teofimo."
"The Takeover" Lopez, a 28-year-old from Brooklyn, New York, is a former Ring and unified lightweight and junior welterweight champion. Lopez last fought in January and suffered a lopsided unanimous decision loss to Shakur Stevenson.
Romero suggested he's not going to become the second coming of Stevenson.
"It's a different fight than how [Lopez] fought Shakur, who's not really a big puncher," Romero said. "Shakur is a natural technician. I am not going to go and try to take from Shakur's book. Shakur had an incredible fight against Teofimo, but that's not my style. I'm not a slick, pure-boxing southpaw.
"I don't even know I had a jab. I ain't a boxer. I ain't a brawler. I ain't a counterpuncher. I don't know what I am. I don't even know how to describe myself."
Romero can certainly be described as a power player, however, in the 147-pound division. With fights against Garcia, Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz under his belt, the 30-year-old from Las Vegas continues to have a seat at the head of the table, taking significant fights.
The next encounter just so happens to be someone he calls a friend.
"I beat Teofimo, he still goes on to bigger fights at 147 anyways," Romero said. "Teofimo can beat all of the other guys at 147 and still become a world champion. Remember this though: I am always betting on me."
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
‘It’s time to really turn it up on him’: Teofimo Lopez won’t show mercy to Rolly Romero
Teofimo Lopez says Rolly Romero’s arrogance made it easy to accept a fight against him.
Teofimo Lopez returns to action this weekend in a welterweight title bid against his old pal, Rolly Romero. Throughout the course of the promotion Teofimo would tell the public that their personal relationship has soured a bit in recent time, and it’s precisely for that reason that he has no problem stepping into the ring with Rolly with the intention to do damage. Talking to Fight Hub TV about the fight, check out some of what Teofimo had to say below.
Teofimo on his thought process when the Rolly fight was first presented to him
“The fight was presented to me probably like six weeks after my fight with Shakur. And then there was talks with Zuffa. And then I seen Rolly at the fights, Benavidez vs Zurdo, I think it was unification, and I saw him there and I said like a joke to Rolly because I’m thinking after he came to my locker room [after the Shakur fight] and I just seen something in him I didn’t like. I was like ‘oh, you cocky son of a gun.’ So right away I called my legal team and I said ‘make the fight happen, I want to fight him.’
“He knows I joke, all he did was smile back like and didn’t really say anything back to me, just ignored me…He fooled me [about our friendship] because he kind of like came to my locker room right after my fight at The Garden and all that stuff kind of switched right away from that time to the Benavidez vs Zurdo fight.”
On if he would’ve been against this fight taking place had Rolly not started acting funny towards him
“Yeah, I honestly would’ve [taken] the whole rest of the year off…So that was the real life choice, decision, or defining moment for me.”
On if their personal connection will prevent him from going feral should he have Rolly hurt at some point
“I’d say if I was in the same situation, he would try to finish it…I’ve been too nice, even in our sparrings. So, it’s time to really turn it up on him.”
Teofimo Lopez says Rolly Romero’s arrogance made it easy to accept a fight against him.
Teofimo Lopez returns to action this weekend in a welterweight title bid against his old pal, Rolly Romero. Throughout the course of the promotion Teofimo would tell the public that their personal relationship has soured a bit in recent time, and it’s precisely for that reason that he has no problem stepping into the ring with Rolly with the intention to do damage. Talking to Fight Hub TV about the fight, check out some of what Teofimo had to say below.
Teofimo on his thought process when the Rolly fight was first presented to him
“The fight was presented to me probably like six weeks after my fight with Shakur. And then there was talks with Zuffa. And then I seen Rolly at the fights, Benavidez vs Zurdo, I think it was unification, and I saw him there and I said like a joke to Rolly because I’m thinking after he came to my locker room [after the Shakur fight] and I just seen something in him I didn’t like. I was like ‘oh, you cocky son of a gun.’ So right away I called my legal team and I said ‘make the fight happen, I want to fight him.’
“He knows I joke, all he did was smile back like and didn’t really say anything back to me, just ignored me…He fooled me [about our friendship] because he kind of like came to my locker room right after my fight at The Garden and all that stuff kind of switched right away from that time to the Benavidez vs Zurdo fight.”
On if he would’ve been against this fight taking place had Rolly not started acting funny towards him
“Yeah, I honestly would’ve [taken] the whole rest of the year off…So that was the real life choice, decision, or defining moment for me.”
On if their personal connection will prevent him from going feral should he have Rolly hurt at some point
“I’d say if I was in the same situation, he would try to finish it…I’ve been too nice, even in our sparrings. So, it’s time to really turn it up on him.”
Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Close to 50/50
Rolly is a better technical boxer
If Teo makes a fight of it which he could, he has enough raw smarts to pull himself through.
Rolly is a better technical boxer
If Teo makes a fight of it which he could, he has enough raw smarts to pull himself through.
Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
This is an interesting matchup as I feel like both of these guys are kinda one trick ponies in how they attack.
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Romero on Lopez fight: 'The enemy is my little brother who I love dearly'
Rolando Romero and Teofimo Lopez Jr. were left with no choice but to set aside their bond to slug it out in a boxing match.
The friends will make ends meet and later break bread together, but one will certainly go back to the drawing board with a broken spirit and in an unfavourable position.
The drama unfolds on Saturday when Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) defends his WBA welterweight title against Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
"There were so many other fights I was trying to give to the fans, but Teofimo was the actual one who was not scared," Romero told The Ring. "He'll fight anybody. Same thing with me – I'll fight anybody.
"Did I pick Teofimo? No. The last thing I wanted to do is go fight my friend. He's my little brother. The enemy is my little brother and someone who I love very dearly. He was the last one on my list."
Indeed he was.
After beating Ryan Garcia last year, Romero had failed negotiations for a rematch with his most recent rival. Fights against Manny Pacquiao, Devin Haney and Conor Benn didn't materialize either, and Romero had no motive to face mandatory challengers, first in Shakhram Giyasov and then Jack Catterall.
So Romero's circuitous route eventually led him to Lopez.
"God doesn't make mistakes. The delay was meant to be. I needed the delay, I needed the time off," Romero said. "I had to be reborn again in Christ, and I did. I had to die to myself, which I did die to myself when I was reborn in Christ.
"I was keeping busy by training out of boredom. I mean, what else am I gonna do? Just be at home, do nothing, play video games and eat potato chips? There's only so many vacations I could go on, and the money gets boring."
Romero credits Lopez for stabilizing his financial future with a $5,000 loan in 2019 before he eventually made big money fighting Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz, albeit in losing efforts while getting stopped. Romero also recalls the sparring sessions with precision – four times in total for 26 rounds, with the last time being on October 27, 2017.
"He had his moments. I had my moments. Sparring is sparring. A fight is a fight," Romero said. "You fight in the gym all the time, but I've never experienced fighting a close friend like this.
"I don't fight for money. I fight for legacy. Beating Teofimo puts me in the Hall of Fame. I believe Teofimo is already in the Hall of Fame."
So how is the 30-year-old from Las Vegas going to compartmentalize the fight to swing fists on a friend with mean intentions?
"A fight is a fight, and I like big fights," Romero said. "I'm a hometown hero. It's time to represent my city, and it happens to be against Lopez, who was the only one left."
Rolando Romero and Teofimo Lopez Jr. were left with no choice but to set aside their bond to slug it out in a boxing match.
The friends will make ends meet and later break bread together, but one will certainly go back to the drawing board with a broken spirit and in an unfavourable position.
The drama unfolds on Saturday when Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) defends his WBA welterweight title against Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
"There were so many other fights I was trying to give to the fans, but Teofimo was the actual one who was not scared," Romero told The Ring. "He'll fight anybody. Same thing with me – I'll fight anybody.
"Did I pick Teofimo? No. The last thing I wanted to do is go fight my friend. He's my little brother. The enemy is my little brother and someone who I love very dearly. He was the last one on my list."
Indeed he was.
After beating Ryan Garcia last year, Romero had failed negotiations for a rematch with his most recent rival. Fights against Manny Pacquiao, Devin Haney and Conor Benn didn't materialize either, and Romero had no motive to face mandatory challengers, first in Shakhram Giyasov and then Jack Catterall.
So Romero's circuitous route eventually led him to Lopez.
"God doesn't make mistakes. The delay was meant to be. I needed the delay, I needed the time off," Romero said. "I had to be reborn again in Christ, and I did. I had to die to myself, which I did die to myself when I was reborn in Christ.
"I was keeping busy by training out of boredom. I mean, what else am I gonna do? Just be at home, do nothing, play video games and eat potato chips? There's only so many vacations I could go on, and the money gets boring."
Romero credits Lopez for stabilizing his financial future with a $5,000 loan in 2019 before he eventually made big money fighting Gervonta Davis and Isaac Cruz, albeit in losing efforts while getting stopped. Romero also recalls the sparring sessions with precision – four times in total for 26 rounds, with the last time being on October 27, 2017.
"He had his moments. I had my moments. Sparring is sparring. A fight is a fight," Romero said. "You fight in the gym all the time, but I've never experienced fighting a close friend like this.
"I don't fight for money. I fight for legacy. Beating Teofimo puts me in the Hall of Fame. I believe Teofimo is already in the Hall of Fame."
So how is the 30-year-old from Las Vegas going to compartmentalize the fight to swing fists on a friend with mean intentions?
"A fight is a fight, and I like big fights," Romero said. "I'm a hometown hero. It's time to represent my city, and it happens to be against Lopez, who was the only one left."
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
'Champion for a reason': Lopez likens Romero to Lomachenko, Stevenson
Rolando Romero was knocked out by Gervonta Davis in 2022.
He was stopped by Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in 2024.
And he was fortunate to sneak away with a controversial ninth-round stoppage win against Ismael Barroso in a May 2023 fight he was losing on all three scorecards. The win came with a stain, as many of Romero’s peers billed him as the worst active titleholder at the time.
But Romero has revived his career and taken a seat at the head of the welterweight table by dropping and decisioning Ryan Garcia last time out in May 2025.
The upset ultimately made Romero the WBA welterweight titleholder, once Jaron “Boots” Ennis gave up his WBA belt in June 2025 and Romero was elevated from the status of secondary champion.
After failed negotiations for a rematch against Garcia as well as fights against Manny Pacquiao, Devin Haney and Conor Benn, Romero finally found a willing and able dance partner in Teofimo Lopez, an opponent he considers a dear friend.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) and Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) will set aside their relationship and relish in combat on Saturday night. They’ll meet at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where they’ll headline a DAZN and Prime Video pay-per-view event presented by Premier Boxing Champions ($79.99; 8 p.m. ET; 5 p.m. PT).
Lopez, who has career-best wins against Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor as well as losses against Shakur Stevenson and George Kambosos Jr., believes Romero is the real deal.
“He’s at that level of Lomachenko and Stevenson,” Lopez told The Ring. “He’s a champion for a reason. He’s a three-division titleholder for a reason. People tend to think of his style and how he looks when he fights. But the guy finds a way to win. So, we miss out on those things by discrediting how they look.
“It’s not how you look. It’s how you win, and it’s how you move on from it. He’s a tough competitor. He’s the toughest guy that I’m facing at 147 pounds. I think everyone knows that, and we’re here to step up to the plate and take over.”
Romero is not ranked among The Ring’s top 10 contenders for a welterweight title that’s vacant. But he is ranked by Lopez, a former unified lightweight and Ring and WBO junior welterweight champ, as a close friend.
“I’d say that the hardest part is taking those steps [toward separating our relationship],” Lopez said. “The most difficult part is actually going along with it. There is a point in boxing where if people continue to see friendships happening and occurring, we’re gonna get fewer fights. So, we have to lead by example.”
Lopez is confident he can crush Romero following his lopsided loss against Stevenson in January. Lopez won only one round across the scorecards and was out-landed 165 to 72 in what proved to be his final fight at 140 pounds following a four-year, seven-fight run in the division.
“Everything against Stevenson happened exactly the way it needed to happen,” Lopez said. “Now we’re here. We didn’t miss a beat. We just got elevated to something bigger and better.
“I am always confident that I will be victorious. I know that with training and everything that I’m aligning with, it’s time for me to really step up to who I am.”
Rolando Romero was knocked out by Gervonta Davis in 2022.
He was stopped by Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in 2024.
And he was fortunate to sneak away with a controversial ninth-round stoppage win against Ismael Barroso in a May 2023 fight he was losing on all three scorecards. The win came with a stain, as many of Romero’s peers billed him as the worst active titleholder at the time.
But Romero has revived his career and taken a seat at the head of the welterweight table by dropping and decisioning Ryan Garcia last time out in May 2025.
The upset ultimately made Romero the WBA welterweight titleholder, once Jaron “Boots” Ennis gave up his WBA belt in June 2025 and Romero was elevated from the status of secondary champion.
After failed negotiations for a rematch against Garcia as well as fights against Manny Pacquiao, Devin Haney and Conor Benn, Romero finally found a willing and able dance partner in Teofimo Lopez, an opponent he considers a dear friend.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) and Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) will set aside their relationship and relish in combat on Saturday night. They’ll meet at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where they’ll headline a DAZN and Prime Video pay-per-view event presented by Premier Boxing Champions ($79.99; 8 p.m. ET; 5 p.m. PT).
Lopez, who has career-best wins against Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor as well as losses against Shakur Stevenson and George Kambosos Jr., believes Romero is the real deal.
“He’s at that level of Lomachenko and Stevenson,” Lopez told The Ring. “He’s a champion for a reason. He’s a three-division titleholder for a reason. People tend to think of his style and how he looks when he fights. But the guy finds a way to win. So, we miss out on those things by discrediting how they look.
“It’s not how you look. It’s how you win, and it’s how you move on from it. He’s a tough competitor. He’s the toughest guy that I’m facing at 147 pounds. I think everyone knows that, and we’re here to step up to the plate and take over.”
Romero is not ranked among The Ring’s top 10 contenders for a welterweight title that’s vacant. But he is ranked by Lopez, a former unified lightweight and Ring and WBO junior welterweight champ, as a close friend.
“I’d say that the hardest part is taking those steps [toward separating our relationship],” Lopez said. “The most difficult part is actually going along with it. There is a point in boxing where if people continue to see friendships happening and occurring, we’re gonna get fewer fights. So, we have to lead by example.”
Lopez is confident he can crush Romero following his lopsided loss against Stevenson in January. Lopez won only one round across the scorecards and was out-landed 165 to 72 in what proved to be his final fight at 140 pounds following a four-year, seven-fight run in the division.
“Everything against Stevenson happened exactly the way it needed to happen,” Lopez said. “Now we’re here. We didn’t miss a beat. We just got elevated to something bigger and better.
“I am always confident that I will be victorious. I know that with training and everything that I’m aligning with, it’s time for me to really step up to who I am.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Romero anticipates riotous fight of the year against Lopez
Rolando Romero is ready for a rollicking bash against bestie-turned-rival Teofimo Lopez Jr.
Friends will become enemies on August 22 when the WBA welterweight champion Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) defends his title for the first time against the division debutant Lopez Jr. (22-2, 13 KOs).
The fight will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
"This is going to be an action-packed, fight of the year kind of fight,” Romero said in a training camp dispatch. “Teo and I are always in entertaining fights. We’re the most entertaining fighters in the world and definitely the best self-promoters in the world.
"Nobody can ever say we’re runners or we’re in boring fights, like some of these other fighters y’all love to praise. We don’t run, we like to punch, and that’s what y’all can expect on August 22 – the biggest fight of the year from the sport’s most entertaining fighters.”
"Rolly" Romero, a 30-year-old from Las Vegas, finally found a willing and able dance partner in Lopez after failed negotiations with Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, Manny Pacquiao and Conor Benn left him sidelined for 16 months after dropping and decisioning Garcia.
"The Takeover" Lopez is a former Ring and unified lightweight and junior welterweight champion who is looking to become a three-division titleholder. The 28-year-old from Brooklyn, New York, looked nowhere near like himself last time out, however, against Shakur Stevenson and lost a landslide unanimous decision.
“Yeah, we’re friends, and we know each other’s families, but none of that matters on August 22,” Romero said. “I’m looking to be a Hall of Famer, just like Teofimo is. The only way to do that is to go through each other.
“That’s what’s wrong with boxing nowadays. Everybody wants to be friends, but they’re scared to fight each other and instead forget why we all got into this sport to begin with. That’s to become a legend and one of the best of our generation.”
Romero has esteemed coach Ismael Salas in his corner to help him attain career-defining accolades.
“To me, Salas is the greatest trainer of all time,” Romero said. "Who has won world titles with more fighters than Salas? He doesn’t ever get the flowers he deserves when they bring up Trainer of the Year.
“We’ve always had good chemistry together, like peanut butter and jelly. Salas knows exactly how to train me and what we need to work on to get the win. On August 22, we’re going to prove to everybody why nobody should ever bet against us again.”
Rolando Romero is ready for a rollicking bash against bestie-turned-rival Teofimo Lopez Jr.
Friends will become enemies on August 22 when the WBA welterweight champion Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) defends his title for the first time against the division debutant Lopez Jr. (22-2, 13 KOs).
The fight will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to headline a DAZN and Prime Video PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
"This is going to be an action-packed, fight of the year kind of fight,” Romero said in a training camp dispatch. “Teo and I are always in entertaining fights. We’re the most entertaining fighters in the world and definitely the best self-promoters in the world.
"Nobody can ever say we’re runners or we’re in boring fights, like some of these other fighters y’all love to praise. We don’t run, we like to punch, and that’s what y’all can expect on August 22 – the biggest fight of the year from the sport’s most entertaining fighters.”
"Rolly" Romero, a 30-year-old from Las Vegas, finally found a willing and able dance partner in Lopez after failed negotiations with Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, Manny Pacquiao and Conor Benn left him sidelined for 16 months after dropping and decisioning Garcia.
"The Takeover" Lopez is a former Ring and unified lightweight and junior welterweight champion who is looking to become a three-division titleholder. The 28-year-old from Brooklyn, New York, looked nowhere near like himself last time out, however, against Shakur Stevenson and lost a landslide unanimous decision.
“Yeah, we’re friends, and we know each other’s families, but none of that matters on August 22,” Romero said. “I’m looking to be a Hall of Famer, just like Teofimo is. The only way to do that is to go through each other.
“That’s what’s wrong with boxing nowadays. Everybody wants to be friends, but they’re scared to fight each other and instead forget why we all got into this sport to begin with. That’s to become a legend and one of the best of our generation.”
Romero has esteemed coach Ismael Salas in his corner to help him attain career-defining accolades.
“To me, Salas is the greatest trainer of all time,” Romero said. "Who has won world titles with more fighters than Salas? He doesn’t ever get the flowers he deserves when they bring up Trainer of the Year.
“We’ve always had good chemistry together, like peanut butter and jelly. Salas knows exactly how to train me and what we need to work on to get the win. On August 22, we’re going to prove to everybody why nobody should ever bet against us again.”
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Re: Teofimo Lopez vs. Rolly Romero | DAZN - August 22, 2026
Rolly Romero claims he was taking ‘estrogen’ when he beat Ryan Garcia in wild interview
With Rolly Romero, we have come to expect the unexpected, but onlookers were nonetheless stunned by his latest admission.
The WBA welterweight champion was at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Wednesday night for an open workout ahead of his upcoming clash with friend-turned-foe Teofimo Lopez this weekend.
"That was the cyanide I was taking that destroyed my life.
"And it's crazy now, I beat Ryan Garcia while taking estrogen.
"But God was the one who told me what it was and saved me."
What adverse effects does estrogen have on men?
While anti-estrogenic substances, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), estrogen is not.
Unlike exogenous forms of the male hormone testosterone, which is strictly prohibited due to its ability to boost athletic performance, estrogen does not have the same effects.
It is widely used for legitimate medical treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and contraception for women.
In men, heightened estrogen levels have adverse effects on athletic performance, as it lowers natural free testosterone.
This can consequently decrease muscle mass, increase body fat, and reduce strength and endurance.
If these claims prove to be true, then it makes Romero's win over Garcia all the more impressive.
Romero dropped Garcia in the second round with a double left hook and cruised to a comfortable unanimous decision to claim the WBA 'regular' welterweight strap.
His belt was subsequently upgraded to the full world title in May when Jaron Ennis vacated it to move up to super welterweight.
Romero is now set to defend his belt for the first time against Lopez, who is making his 147lbs debut after dropping his WBO super lightweight title to Shakur Stevenson in January.
With Rolly Romero, we have come to expect the unexpected, but onlookers were nonetheless stunned by his latest admission.
The WBA welterweight champion was at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Wednesday night for an open workout ahead of his upcoming clash with friend-turned-foe Teofimo Lopez this weekend.
"That was the cyanide I was taking that destroyed my life.
"And it's crazy now, I beat Ryan Garcia while taking estrogen.
"But God was the one who told me what it was and saved me."
What adverse effects does estrogen have on men?
While anti-estrogenic substances, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), estrogen is not.
Unlike exogenous forms of the male hormone testosterone, which is strictly prohibited due to its ability to boost athletic performance, estrogen does not have the same effects.
It is widely used for legitimate medical treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and contraception for women.
In men, heightened estrogen levels have adverse effects on athletic performance, as it lowers natural free testosterone.
This can consequently decrease muscle mass, increase body fat, and reduce strength and endurance.
If these claims prove to be true, then it makes Romero's win over Garcia all the more impressive.
Romero dropped Garcia in the second round with a double left hook and cruised to a comfortable unanimous decision to claim the WBA 'regular' welterweight strap.
His belt was subsequently upgraded to the full world title in May when Jaron Ennis vacated it to move up to super welterweight.
Romero is now set to defend his belt for the first time against Lopez, who is making his 147lbs debut after dropping his WBO super lightweight title to Shakur Stevenson in January.