Teofimo Lopez (114-114, 115-113 and 116-112) is a world champion once again and this time, “The Takeover” has conquered the welterweight division.
Lopez defeated Rolando “Rolly” Romero on Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, snatching the WBA welterweight championship and adding another major achievement to his already decorated boxing career.
The highly anticipated showdown carried plenty of intrigue, with the two fighters entering the ring as former friends and sparring partners. But once the opening bell sounded, friendship was pushed aside as Lopez went to work.
Lopez established himself early with his superior hand speed, consistent jab and attacks to Romero’s body. He repeatedly pressed forward while forcing the defending champion to fight off the back foot. Live round-by-round coverage had Lopez controlling much of the opening stages.
Romero, however, produced his most dangerous moment in the fifth round. A strong attack opened a cut above Lopez’s right eye, and Romero followed with heavy punches that briefly put the challenger under serious pressure. Lopez survived the scare and quickly regained control.
From there, “The Takeover” returned to his disciplined approach, consistently outworking Romero and preventing the champion from establishing sustained offense.
By the championship rounds, Lopez appeared firmly in command. He landed a powerful right hand in the 10th that forced Romero backward before continuing to dictate the action in the 11th.
TEO SECURES THE W 👑
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After completing the 12-round battle, Lopez was declared the winner, ending Romero’s reign and walking away with the WBA welterweight belt.
The victory is especially significant for Lopez, who entered the contest looking to rebound after losing his junior-welterweight crown to Shakur Stevenson earlier this year. He moved up to 147 pounds with an opportunity to reinvent himself — and delivered when it mattered most.
Having previously captured world titles at lightweight and junior welterweight, Lopez’s latest triumph makes him a champion across three weight divisions.
Las Vegas witnessed another chapter of “The Takeover” on Saturday night.
Teofimo Lopez came for Rolly Romero’s belt — and left Sin City as the new WBA welterweight king.
