“You Have to Beat Somebody That is Not a Cab Driver”- Teofimo Lopez Dismisses Fellow Lightweights from the P4P Rankings

Newly minted multi-institutional champion Teofimo Lopez spoke to talkSPORT and had plenty to say about his lightweight counterparts.

Chiefly, Teofimo Lopez shared his candid impression on what it meant to be placed in the pound-for-pound rankings. ‘El Brooklyn’ landed a spot on the coveted list after he earned a decision win over the consensus P4P star Vasiliy Lomachenko.

The star-making effort by Teofimo Lopez opened up new avenues for the young upstart. He proved that he was much more than a power puncher as he skilfully maneuvered Loma’s offense.

Moreover, Teofimo Lopez showcased championship mettle as he weathered a late storm from Vasiliy Lomachenko that would cripple an average foe.

Teofimo Lopez on being placed in the P4P rankings

The 23-year-old was certainly pleased to accomplish a lifelong dream of any combat sports athlete. Mounting yourself onto the Pound-for-Pound best fighter rankings is a testament to ultimate championship prowess.

While speaking out on the achievement, Teofimo shared his views on Lomachenko’s name being beside his own.

“It’s amazing. I believe top five is where I belong. One thing I don’t like is that it’s me and Loma next to each other. I’m like, ‘Nah, kick him out.’

“In reality though, it’s crazy just to see your name on there. To see that out of many, many fighters in the world, and you’re in the top five,

“It goes to show me that we’re doing something big. I’m very happy and I’m very appreciative of those who have acknowledged me for all the hard work and all the stuff that we have done.”

‘El Brooklyn’ puts the lightweight stars on blast

Lopez also had warring words for his lightweight counterparts who are viewed as challenges to his championship stats. Fighters like Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis and Devin Haney have consistently proved themselves to be a handful for their opposition.

However, these seem to be the farthest things from Lopez’s mind.

“For anyone that’s trying to be in the pound-for-pound list alongside me, you have to beat somebody that is not a cab driver, that is not a tomato can and that actually has a pulse. As regards to ‘Tank’ Davis, to Devin Haney, to Ryan Garcia,” Lopez said.

“I know they’re trying to squeeze some of these other guys into the pound-for-pound list now that I’m on. But nah, not yet.”

Teofimo Lopez is deservedly riding high following his most recent victory. Additionally, his placement on the P4P rankings will certainly put up a target on his back. Time will be the only indicator as to the true ceiling of his potential.