The World Boxing Organization released a lengthy statement confirming Teofimo Lopez as the new WBO super champion at 140 pounds.
Despite initially stating his intentions to give up the belt when beating Josh Taylor, Lopez made a U-turn. Top Rank then requested recognition of his victory.
The WBO said, “Top Rank, Inc., in support thereof, argued that Lopez recently defeated then-former Undisputed and Lineal Jr. Welterweight Champion Josh Taylor at Madison Square Garden Arena in New York.
And that “His performance has received accolades throughout the boxing community and a nomination for “Performance of the Year.”
“Teofimo also defeated former Unified Lightweight Champion Vasiliy Lomachenko, clearly reflecting the magnitude of Lopez’s level of opposition and accomplishments.
“In closing, Top Rank, Inc., argues that Lopez satisfies the required criteria for “Super Champion” status.”
Teofimo Lopez – WBO resolution
The WBO aired its resolution. A resolution that was almost two thousand words long. WBN condensed it to what reads below.
The issue in question is straightforward: whether Teofimo Lopez satisfies the established criteria for “WBO Super Champion” status designation.
This Committee strongly believes that Lopez substantially satisfies the requirements for such recognition. His professional record is outstanding, comprised of 19 wins with only one loss, with 13 of said wins via knockout. Lopez’s combined record includes 380 wins, 64 losses, and eight draws.
The split decision loss in his record has been subject to debate, considering his physical condition when the bout took place.
Lopez has faced high-level opposition in Commey, Lomachenko, Kambosos, Jr., and Taylor, who have been world champions in their respective weight division.
The above-referenced accomplishments satisfy the criteria for designation as “WBO Super Champion” in the Jr. Welterweight Division.
Committee ruling
Having carefully reviewed and appraised the facts stated herein, having reviewed the relevant provisions, and having examined our governing rules and regulations, this Committee resolves as follows:
1. The WBO Championship Committee at this moment rules as follows:
a. The request is now granted to designate Teofimo Lopez as “WBO Super Champion” status in the WBO Jr. Welterweight Division.
2. The Committee reserves its right to issue all further rulings and determinations necessary, helpful, and convenient to accomplish the purposes, policies, and intent of the WBO Rules and Regulations, including but not limited to serving the best interests of boxing, World Boxing Organization, and its Jr. Welterweight Division.
This is a final decision of the WBO Championship Committee. The affected WBO participant may appeal such determination to the Complaint and Grievance Committee as per Rule 34, which, as per Article 3(e) of the WBO Appeals Regulation, must be submitted in writing to the WBO President within fourteen (14) days of this decision as its sole and exclusive remedy.
