Teofimo Lopez is in danger of losing his WBO world super lightweight title after the sanctioning body laid out its future plans for the belt.
Lopez last fought on June 10 and beat former undisputed 140lbs champion Josh Taylor in what was an impressive performance. During the post-fight aftermath, Lopez stated that he would be looking to retire from boxing, but the WBO belt is yet to be vacated despite these claims.
Now the WBO have taken matters into their own hands and have set a deadline for Lopez to make a decision, according to ESPN's Mike Coppinger.
"The WBO announced Tuesday evening that Teofimo Lopez’s junior welterweight title will be vacant unless he informs the organization within 24 hours that he wishes to retain his title, Coppinger posted on Twitter.
"If the title is declared vacant, Jose Ramirez and Arnold Barboza will be ordered to meet for the belt. Ramirez and Barboza share a promoter (Top Rank) and manager (Rick Mirigian).
"Devin Haney also has 24 hours to inform the WBO of his plans. If he wishes to move up to 140, he would be in line to fight Barboza.
"I have spoken to Ramirez and Barboza, they both respect each other and have agreed to fight should Lopez stay retired and Haney pass,” Mirigian told ESPN. “I look forward to working with Top Rank and optimistic to get both fighters what they want and make one hell of a fight for ESPN."