Luis Alberto Lopez (30-2, 17 KOs) returns to the ring to defend his IBF featherweight title against Angelo Leo (24-1, 11 KOs).
The two fighters headline a Top Rank card – in association with Legacy Boxing Promotions – at the Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, NM. Fight fans in the United States can catch the action on ESPN, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes. Those in the United Kingdom can do so with Sky Sports while TSN carries the action in Canada. Lopez is making the fourth defence of his world title.
Ahead of their August 10 world title clash, Lopez and Leo spoke at a press conference. Below is some of what they had to say.
Luis Alberto Lopez vs. Angelo Leo Press Conference Quotes
Luis Alberto Lopez
“Yes, that’s it. We’re used to going to different parts of the world,” said Lopez through an interpreter about fighting opponents in their home cities.London, England. Leeds. Venado, the ‘Road Warrior,’ always comes out on top and with that same preparation. If we can end the fight quickly, we’ll end the fight quickly. If there’s things we need to do, we’ll do that. But one thing’s clear, we’re gonna come back champions.”
“We work on everything. We work on improving our speed, our strength, getting better at everything with the defence because I know there is a lack there as well. So we worked hard in the gym. We do things really well. We did a good job in this camp. Angelo, he’s a former world champion who once again wants to become a world champion. So we’re prepared for the very best version of him, and it’s going to be war.”
Angelo Leo
“It means the world,” said Leo about fighting in his hometown of Albuquerque.This is something I’ve always wanted, to fight back in my hometown. And what better way to do it than with a world title shot.”
“Main goal was just to win, got that ‘W’ [in my previous fight against Eduardo Baez]. I knew everything else would fall into place with a Venado fight so first thing’s first was to win [that fight].”
Fight Prediction
Lopez’s recent form has been impressive. With wins against Josh Warrington in Leeds and Michael Conlan in Belfast, he knows exactly what it is like to defeat a boxer in their hometown. Leo only has stoppages in 11 of his 25 bouts, so “Venado” should be coming forward regardless of what he is getting hit with. However, Leo can take this fight the distance. Expect Lopez to win a unanimous decision.
Full Press Conference
For the press conference in its entirety, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Top Rank.
