THE RESULT: Luis Alberto Lopez successfully defends his IBF featherweight belt for the third time, stopping Reiya Abe with 39 seconds remaining in the eighth round.
KEY MOMENTS: During the opening round, Lopez landed a left hook that caused damage to Abe’s right eye, putting the Japanese fighter at a disadvantage for the rest of the fight.
RECORDS: Following 32 fights, Lopez’s record now stands at 30-2 (17). Abe’s defeat brings his record to 25-4-1 (10).
TALKING POINT: Lopez’s unique fighting style, characterized by its unorthodox, relentless, and unpredictable nature, proved effective in this match. His left hook consistently found its mark, forcing Abe and previous opponents to defend themselves against his aggressive approach.
QUOTABLE: “I came out in the eighth round with the determination to finish the fight when I saw my family ringside. My goal is to unify the world titles at 126 pounds, but I am also open to moving up to 130. I am ready to face the winner of the Oscar Valdez and Liam Wilson fight,” said Lopez.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Lopez’s willingness to face any opponent and his impressive track record of victories in a short span of time showcase his active and ambitious nature. Whether it’s a featherweight unification bout or a move up to the super-featherweight division, Lopez is ready for the next challenge.