Jack Catterall is one step closer to a world title as he is set to face Arnold Barboza in a WBO world title eliminator. WBO President, Gustavo Olivieri, has indicated that the winner of Jack Catterall Arnold Barboza Jr will face Teofimo Lopez.
Catterall comes off a conclusive win over Regis Prograis, cementing his recent run of good form following wins over Josh Taylor and Jorge Linares. Catterall boasts a record of 30-1, with his one defeat coming by way of an extremely controversial decision against Josh Taylor when the pair first fought in 2022.
The Chorley boxer will lock horns with 31-0 Arnold Barboza Jr.. Barboza’s last fight saw him win a unanimous decision over Jose Ramirez.
Also on the card, Reece Bellotti will face Michael Gomez Jr. for the British and Commonwealth Featherweight titles, and Pat McCormack will clash with Robbie Davies Jr. in a step-up eliminator for the British title that will determine both what McCormack has to offer, and what Davies Jr. has left.
Teofimo Lopez vs Jack Catterall Arnold Barboza Winner
WBO President Gustavo Olivieri has spoken out regarding Teofimo Lopez’ ongoing contract disputes, and the impact it will have on the Jack Catterall Arnold Barboza Jr. winner.
Lopez was said to be in negotiations with Subriel Matias, though these negotiations have collapsed as Lopez engages in a dispute with promoter Top Rank.
Olivieri wrote on X, ‘In light of the uncertainty regarding Teofimo Lopez’s career, it is in the best interest of boxing & the 140 lbs division, recommending […] that Barboza/Catterall be sanctioned for the interim title’.
He elaborates, suggesting that the winner should be declared ‘mandatory subject to specific conditions & time frame to fight Lopez to terminate the interim champion status and have only world champion in the 140lbs’.
Teofimo Lopez won the WBO Super Lightweight title against Josh Taylor in 2023. Lopez holds a record of 21-1, with his one loss coming by way of major upset to George Kambosos Jr.
Jack Catterall Arnold Barboza Jr. will air at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester on February 15th, live on DAZN.
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