For a long time, fans were treated to a slew of back-and-forth exchanges. Making the best use of social media, Teofimo Lopez and Shakur Stevenson didn’t miss a day taking potshots at each other. While it regaled fans, the verbal spats and bickering only left followers yearning for a fight. If only two of the biggest names in boxing would step into the ring. However, it appears they may not have to wait much longer. Their prayers are finally being answered.

Several outlets have reported that Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson is finally inching closer to a deal. In his latest interviews, Lopez has also hinted in that direction. Talks have taken place and seem to be moving positively, though they have yet to reach the finish line. Now, noted boxing insider Rick Glaser has shared a few updates that should keep fans on their toes. Both Lopez and Stevenson are coming off stirring victories and are looking to cement their status as preeminent figures in the lower divisions.

Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson talks enter the home stretch

Glaser wrote, “Being told Shakur Stevenson vs. Teofimo Lopez will definitely happen in early 2026.” Particulars such as the exact date, location, and purse remain unfinalized, he added. However, both fighters and their teams have seemingly agreed to make the fight happen.

Thanking Turki Alalshikh for bringing out yet another blockbuster, the New York Boxing Hall of Fame (NYBHOF) inductee said, “Great fight, no one can complain about it. Shakur moving up in weight for a huge challenge!” Inevitably, the comments attracted a string of responses.

When one fan probed whether the fight could potentially take place in New York, Glaser replied, “Probably.” A few others asked whether the card would be under PBC or Top Rank auspices, and the boxing insider had only one response to those queries – “No.”

For sure, diehards have their hearts in their mouths by now.

Not there yet – But Lopez vs. Stevenson was always meant to be

Still, not to play spoilsport, it’s always better to remember that this is boxing. Anything can happen anytime! Before their hopes hit the roof, fans might as well listen to what Teofimo Lopez told Brian Custer in the latest episode of the latter’s podcast, The Last Stand.

“We’re looking forward to facing Shakur Stevenson in early 2026. Definitely looking and excited for it. Neither one of us has gotten to the point of signing the dotted line. We’re still in negotiations, and that’s all it but there are paperworks going and tossing back and forth, and you know, soon enough the fight fans and everyone around the world will see us having a fight deal,” the light welterweight champion said.

For a long time, boxing enthusiasts have regarded a Stevenson-Lopez clash as one of the sport’s most anticipated matchups. But the box remained unchecked. Fans understandably celebrate that the talks have finally reached this stage instead of fizzling out, as they often do.

However, given how the chessboard currently looks, perhaps the meeting between the two boxing stars was just a matter of time. Gervonta Davis is busy with other engagements and contemplating a potential retirement. Without a chance of unifying the title, Shakur Stevenson, who wants to become a four-division champion, had to look elsewhere.

After facing criticism for taking on lesser challengers, Lopez, on the other hand, has been seeking validation. A win over a brilliant boxer like Stevenson could help him silence the critics and cement his legacy.

Fans should keep an eye on this space. More interesting developments are sure to emerge in the days to come.

Do you think Lopez vs. Stevenson has Fight of the Year written all over it?