Lopez defends his IBF featherweight world title against Gonzalez on Friday, September 15 at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi & LIVE on ESPN
IBF featherweight world champion Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez is set to start the Mexican Independence Day weekend with a robust defense of his belt.
On Friday, September 15, Lopez will defend his title at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. He’ll be facing Joet Gonzalez, a two-time world title challenger.
The evening’s fights, including the Lopez-Gonzalez bout, the Xander Zayas-Roberto Valenzuela Jr. fight, and Emiliano Fernando Vargas’ comeback, will be telecasted live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ starting at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
The event, being promoted by Top Rank, has tickets available for purchase on Ticketmaster.com.
Lopez’s journey (with a record of 28-2, 16 KOs) to becoming a world champion hasn’t been a cakewalk. He faced defeats against Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa early in his career. However, he found success against Andy Vences with a split decision in July 2020 and subsequently outclassed then-undefeated Gabriel Flores Jr. in September 2021. After three more victories under his belt, he got the opportunity to fight for the IBF title. In an upset, he took down Josh Warrington in Leeds, England. Continuing his streak, he ventured into hostile ground and achieved a fifth-round TKO victory over Michael Conlan in Belfast. 29-year-old Gonzalez (with a record of 26-3, 15 KOs) is entering this fight after securing a 10-round unanimous decision win against Jose Enrique Vivas this past April.
“I’m always upping my game, striving for that edge inside the ring. There’s always room to be better, and I’m on it.”
“My aim? That knockout. For me, it’s about pushing my own limits. Joet Gonzalez has faced the likes of Shakur Stevenson, Emanuel Navarrete, and Isaac Dogboe, and he’s never hit the canvas. Taking him down? That’s a next-level goal for me.”
“I get that this fight is going to be no joke. Joet comes in swinging, and he doesn’t let up. But hey, so do I. Everyone should gear up for a serious fight.”
“Showcasing Mexican pride on such a big stage? That’s pure fire. I’m all hyped for the fight. We’ve got our blueprint, and we’re set to make it a night to remember on September 15.”
Luis Alberto Lopez:
“I’m thrilled to step into the ring on such a significant day for Mexico. Both Joet Gonzalez and I will be holding our nation’s pride high, guaranteeing an explosive battle.”
“While I acknowledge and admire Gonzalez’s impressive record, the ring changes everything. All courtesies are left at the ropes. I’m determined to claim that belt for my family and our country.”
“Anticipate nothing less than an all-out battle. With two passionate Mexicans toe-to-toe, we leave it all in the ring. I respect Gonzalez’s tenacity, but my sights are set on delivering a knockout.”
“I’m prepared, as always. I’m not just any fighter; I’m one who guarantees adrenaline-packed bouts. They recognize that when ‘El Venado’ steps in, it’s going to be an electrifying show.”
Joet Gonzalez:
“I’m facing my third world title shot and couldn’t be more appreciative. Every single bout sees me pouring every ounce of my spirit into it. I’m hungrier than ever for that win.”
“I’ve never known any way but the hard way—no shortcuts, just pure dedication in the gym. Some nights might not have been mine in the past, but that doesn’t deter me. Each time, I step in with renewed vigor.”
“I foresee an unforgettable clash. This isn’t just any day—it’s Mexico’s pride on the line. My sole focus is to emerge as the new IBF world champion. Nothing else matters. I’m set on taking that belt back with me.”
When is the Lopez vs. Gonzalez Fight?
Date: Friday, September 15 Main Card Starts: 10 p.m. ET / 3 a.m. BST Main Event Estimated Walks: 12:00 a.m. ET / 5:00 a.m. BST
The main card is slated to begin at 10 p.m. ET or 3 a.m. BST. The main event fighters are expected to make their way to the ring around 12:00 a.m. ET or 5:00 a.m. BST. Note that these times may vary depending on the duration of the undercard fights.
What Platform is Broadcasting the Lopez vs. Gonzalez Fight?
For U.S. Viewers: Available Live on ESPN+ For UK Viewers: Sky Sports
Where Will the Lopez vs. Gonzalez Fight Take Place?
The fight is set to occur at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Lopez vs. Gonzalez full card
- Luis Alberto Lopez vs. Joet Gonzalez, 12 rounds, for Lopez’s IBF featherweight title
- Xander Zayas vs. Roberto Valenzuela Jr., 10 rounds, junior middleweights
- Emiliano Vargas vs. Alejandro Guardado, 6 rounds, lightweights
- Omar Aguilar vs. Julio Luna, 8 rounds, welterweights
- Jamaine Ortiz vs. Antonio Moran, 10 rounds, lightweights
- Robson Conceicao vs. Humberto Gallindo, 8 rounds, junior lightweights
- Ruben Villa vs. Brandon Valdes, 8 rounds, featherweights
- Tiger Johnson vs. Ricardo Quiroz, 8 rounds, junior welterweights
- John Rincon vs. Bryan Rodriguez Rivera, 6 rounds, welterweights
- Cayden Griffiths vs. TBA, 6 rounds, junior welterweights