Terence Crawford slams Teofimo Lopez over decision: “He got a gift”
WBO super-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez won a highly contentious points decision against Jamaine Ortiz on February 8 in Las Vegas, leading to an inevitable backlash from fighters and fans alike.
‘The Takeover’ put on one of his worst performances to date, as Ortiz’s hand speed, sublime movement and continuous success with his left hook appeared to leave the house fighter flustered and frustrated, as he continuously attempted to load up power punches to no avail, even slipping over completely in round nine when launching in with an uppercut.
The controversial judging at ringside led to boos from the disgruntled fans in Michelob Ultra Arena and also followed an outcry on social media, especially with one lop-sided score of 111-117 causing particular concern and anger.
Immediately after the fight, an upset, unsettled Lopez called out Terence Crawford for a catchweight fight. The undisputed welterweight and pound-for-pound titan was also less than impressed with the New Yorkers’ decision to use his name, taking to X to voice his displeasure over the performance in numerous tweets.
“Talked all that s**t about me and lost. Like I told him focus on who you fighting not me. @TeofimoLopez back to the drawing board you go chump.
“He got a gift and he know it that’s why he crying.”
‘Bud’ continued the onslaught, poking fun at Lopez’s decision to call for a catchweight showdown between the two.
“Catch weight what? This guy is crazy, but he knows what’s up he just trying to use my name for promotion.”
Crawford has been linked to a fight with Mexican superstar, Canelo Alvarez, which undoubtedly would bring a far larger monetary incentive than a meeting with ‘The Showman’, who failed to put on a show in his latest headlining event.
‘Bud’ is also still tied into a rematch clause with Errol Spence Jr. who he beat in merciless fashion last summer.
Lopez’s callouts will likely be brushed aside, as ‘Crawford’s calendar already appears to be full heading through 2024.