Ahead of his Oct. 17 showdown with Vasiliy Lomachenko, Teofimo Lopez has once again hit out at his opponent.
The pair will fight at the Las Vegas MGM Grand, with Lopez putting his IBF lightweight title on the line.
Meanwhile, Lomachenko will be bringing his Ring Magazine, WBA and WBO titles to the ring.
The 32-year-old Lomachenko has fought 15 professional fights, suffering one defeat, but has over 400 career fights. Lopez is nine years his junior and has a record of 15-0, with 12 knockouts to his rival’s 10.
Lopez has consistently been critical of Lomachenko in the build-up to the fight, and while the older fighter has responded on occasion, it is a duel that is driven forward by Lopez.
He hinted to The Ring the roots of his dislike of Lomachenko.
“I have my reasons,” Lopez explained.
“When they’re in the spotlight, let them enjoy it, let them have it, I’ve never been the type to hate on someone or be jealous. But moving forward, I have my reasons, and I’ve seen the way Vasiliy Lomachenko may carry himself outside of the sport, and I got to witness that personally.
“As a professional athlete I’m able to see behind the scenes, and I just never liked it. I don’t like the way things have carried upon with him and how he approaches things.
“That’s why come October 17th, I can’t wait to put hands on this man. I’m sorry, Bob (Arum), I know that’s your guy, but he isn’t going to be your guy after this.”
Lopez struck a confident tone as he appraised his own abilities, proclaiming that he is unique amongst boxers.
“I truly believe that I’m built different, and I’m one of those fighters that what can I not do,” Lopez claimed.
“You people have only seen me for three, three-and-a-half years. Some people look into Teofimo now, or maybe only a year-and-a-half ago, maybe two years ago.
“You guys still haven’t seen anything yet. I’m learning as I continue to do what I do. You haven’t seen anything yet of Teofimo. People only see me a power puncher, and I have power in both hands. My ring IQ is different, and that’s going to play a big role."
He even said that he would knock out his opponent on his way to claiming more titles.
“This is the takeover. Come October 17th, I’m looking to take more things. The fight will go in my favor. I see this fight only one way — and that’s by knockout.”