UNITED STATES: The undisputed Lightweight Champion of the world Teofimo Lopez has tested positive for COVID-19. Due to this, his upcoming fight against George Kambosos Jr. and the entire Triller Fight Club card, has been rescheduled for August 14. Interestinlgy, Lopez and Kambosos Jr. (19-0, 10 KOs) both are currently undefeated.
According to Mike Coppinger, Triller founder Ryan Kavanaugh has confirmed that Lopez vs Kambosos Jr. has been postponed until August 14. Lopez who currently holds almost every belt of the Lightweight division which includes WBA (Super), WBO, IBF, Ring, and WBC (Franchise) belt, confirmed the news through his social media handles.
In his Instagram and Twitter handle he said, “By now you’ve heard the news that I have had to withdraw from the fight due to COVID. Being a champion means doing hard things. NO EXCEPTIONS. And I choose to keep my fellow athletes safe.”
“I am devastated to disappoint so many people. I know the sacrifices we have all made to get here. I believe I am doing the right thing. I don’t want to infect anybody. Sport has power. I choose to use my power to be a good example.”
He further added, “The most powerful thing I can do is protect those I love – and I love the sport of boxing and all of the athletes, fans, trainers, my sponsors and promoters. Thank you everyone for your well wishes. I appreciate your support!”
Meanwhile, his opponent Kambosos Jr. is very furious and devastated as his fight for the world title is postponed. Kambosos Jr. was going to face Lopez for all the titles in Miami this Sunday. The boxer slammed Lopez and his team in his social media handles and he said that, “I would have been undisputed champion this weekend, I know it and you know it,” Kambosos wrote in a social media statement.
“Your actions and decisions have affected not only our fight but everyone involved in this fight! Pure irresponsibility on your whole side.”
“Our time will come and I promise you and the world that I’m going to take your out worse than ever for everything. You can run but you can’t hide!”
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He further added, “As hard as it is to comprehend this right now, I remain focused on the end goal,” he said. “I will be champion of the world.” Lopez defeated Vasily Lomachenko in October to win the WBO, WBC, Ring and WBC franchise belt. Before that, he won the IBF belt by defeating Richard Commey.
