The former leader of the pound-for-pound rating, ex-world champion in two categories, and now the commentator on the boxing evenings of the ESPN television channel, American Andre Ward gave
interview local media after the end of the fight of the former absolute lightweight champion, and now a fighter of the super lightweight division (up to 63.5 kg) American Teofimo Lopez (18-1, 13 KOs) against Spaniard Sandor Martin (40-3, 13 KOs).
Andre spoke about Lopez’s mistakes, commented on his possible fight against US WBC champion Regis Prograis (28-1, 23 KOs), and also expressed his opinion about a possible duel between Gervont “Tank” Davis and Ryan Garcia.
Report from vRINGe: Lopez-Martin: Angels and Demons
— What are your thoughts about the Teofimo fight?
– He didn’t look great. He had good moments, but Martin showed himself. He performed in a way that many people didn’t expect. There was a close fight. But Teofimo didn’t look great.
– Theo said that he wants to fight Prograis in the next fight. Do you think this fight should happen next, or does he need a couple more fights?
I don’t think he should be next. I think he’s in line for a fight. There may be different fights, including with Ramirez, but they will probably go the way of sanctioned fights of the organization. It will be difficult for him at 63.5 kg, and it doesn’t matter who he fights. Progress is different. This is the reason why not many people mention his name. This is the reason why he looks down on everyone. It’s not because he’s a bad fighter. He knows who he is. He is healthy. When you sign a fight with Prograis, you know what you’re getting into. It’s going to be a long night, or a short one if you’re not careful.
What could Teofimo have done differently in this fight against southpaw Sandor Martin? It looks like he didn’t throw many combinations…
“He was just waiting for an opportunity to land one big blow. He is gifted with this natural explosion and quickness, but relies on it too much. He didn’t use the jab today, he stood in front and just tried to charge with big punches. Such an experienced fighter as Martin began to catch this rhythm and counterattack. Teofimo showed no creativity in his attack, feints and footwork. He just didn’t show it. Partly because of his own mistakes, and partly because of Martin’s actions.
- Teofimo Lopez – Sandor Martin: fight statistics
– The difference in 5 pounds did not affect such fighters like you. Does weight really matter?
“Partly because of the weight, partly because Theo didn’t do what he was supposed to do. It’s a combination of reasons. The defeat of Kambososu, I believe, still weighs on him. Even though he had health problems, he still failed. Also pressure from the media and fans. All these things affect. People don’t understand what fighters and athletes have to go through just to stay focused, stay in line and remember who they are. Theo in the ring wondered if there was still desire in him? The same things also crossed his mind before the fight.
Andre, everyone is talking about Ryan Garcia vs. Tank Davis.
– You need to choose Tank as your favorite. Anyone can win, but based on experience, better opposition, punching power and boxing ability, it’s a Tank. But Ryan explodes, extremely fast, and Tank will have to deal with it. And this will give Tank problems in the beginning until he catches up. The question for Ryan is if he can take a hit. When Gervonta delivers a blow, will he be able to hold it, will he keep his composure and will he continue to implement his plan for the fight. If so, then he has a chance, but it won’t be easy. I don’t think this fight will go all the way, no matter which way it goes.
- Teofimo Lopez – Sandor Martin: video of the best moments of the fight