Has Teofimo Lopez lost his killer instinct? Since the Lomachenko win, his punch volume, body work, and finishing urgency have faded. Some have questions on his hunger heading into Saturday night.
That victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko is his peak at this point, an outstanding victory at the time back in 2020.
That is a long time ago at this point though.
Some things to note since;
- He went from hunting finishes to fighting safe and defensive
- His punch volume has dropped significantly in recent outings against Arnold Barboza and Shakur Stevenson in his last couple of bouts
- He backs off after landing one solid shot instead of swarming
- He used to break opponents with body work but now throws fewer body shots
- His foot speed remains but his urgency to close distance has faded
- He talks about hurting opponents but rarely follows through with sustained attacks
- He has not stopped an elite-level opponent in years
- He looks content to win rounds rather than end fights early
- He admitted considering time off, suggesting motivation may be wavering
- Mikey Garcia believes the hunger that made him special is no longer there
Teofimo Lopez had the defeat to George Kambosos in 2021 also.
He had not been that impressive in the victory against Josh Taylor in 2023.
Victories against Steve Claggett and Jermaine Ortiz in 2024 not great either, even in victory.
He is on the slide.
Rolly Romero the man in form coming into the bout Saturday night.
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