Romero Talked Lopez Out Of Quitting Boxing, Now They Face Off In Title Fight

Rolly Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) once persuaded Teofimo Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) not to walk away from boxing. On Saturday, the longtime friends will become rivals when they fight for Romero’s WBA welterweight title at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Lopez considered retiring after struggling to a decision victory over Masayoshi Nakatani in 2019, but Romero urged him to chase his championship dream first.

“I said, ‘Go and fight for a world title, and then quit boxing if you want, but leave boxing as a champion,’” Romero recalled.

Lopez later sent Romero $5,000 when a broken hand left him unable to fight. Romero invested the money and credits it with helping him begin building his wealth.

The pair have also shared numerous sparring rounds since first training together in 2016, but Romero insists their friendship will not matter once the bell rings.

Lopez will make his welterweight debut as he attempts to become a three-division champion following his loss to Shakur Stevenson.

Romero enters his first title defense after defeating Ryan Garcia and later being elevated to full WBA champion.