Steve Claggett aims to make it the perfect 10 against Teofimo Lopez
Calgary’s Steve Claggett has dedicated his life and career to defying the odds and will attempt to do so once again, this time at the highest level, on June 29, when he takes on WBO super-lightweight world champion Teofimo Lopez at the James L. Knight Center in Miami.
Presented by Top Rank, the event will be broadcast worldwide on the ESPN network and will also feature Robeisy Ramirez and ‘The Greatest’s’ grandson, Nico Ali Walsh.
“I’ve worked my whole life for this opportunity and I don’t intend to let it slip away. I’m more motivated than ever, I’ll give it my all, and I firmly believe it will pay off,” says Steve Claggett.
It’s often said that to judge a boxer’s level, one must rely on their recent performances. By that measure, Steve Claggett (38-7-2, 26 KOs) has been a new fighter since teaming up with Montreal coach Mike Moffa.
In less than three years, the man nicknamed ‘The Dragon’ has amassed a record of 9 victories, including 7 by KO, capturing the NABF and WBO International belts along the way against former world champion Alberto Machado and world contender Miguel Madueno.
Fully aware that the next challenge will be entirely different, Underdog Gym’s coach sees his protégé securing a 10th consecutive victory on June 29, but under one condition.
“It’s not with a perfect fight that we’re going to win; we’ll need to be perfect every second of the fight,” says Mike Moffa.
An immensely talented boxer, Teofimo Lopez (20-1, 13 KOs) is not only the WBO champion at 140 pounds but also holds the coveted Ring Magazine belt, two titles he won last year by defeating the previously undefeated Josh Taylor.
He has since defended his titles in February against American Jamaine Ortiz.
However, it was at 135 pounds that Lopez made a name for himself by surprising future Hall of Famer Vasyl Lomachenko to win the IBF, WBA, and WBO lightweight crowns.
But then he was subsequently surprised in his next fight by George Kambosos Jr.
Claiming that none of the biggest names in his division wanted to face him, ‘The Takeover’ tips his hat to Claggett for accepting the challenge, but also for his inspiring journey.
“It’s a Rocky Balboa story for Steve Claggett. I’m really looking forward to seeing what kind of style he brings. No other fighter wanted to face me, and I feel like he’ll be able to give not only me but also the fans a great fight to watch,” says Teofimo Lopez.
“I’m first happy for Steve Claggett. Receiving this opportunity proves that it’s possible to have a second chance in life like in boxing. Now, the plan is to surprise the world,” says Camille Estephan, president and founder of Eye of the Tiger.