First it was Paul Williams for Alvarez, but Paul tragically suffered terrible injuries from a bike crash, then it was James Kirkland, but “The Mandingo Warrior’s” troublesome shoulder injury had not sufficiently healed, ruling him out – then it was Victor Ortiz, and Canelo’s search was over; for a while. Step in 27-year-old Lopez, and the script was torn up again.
Lopez, 30-4(18) rose to the occasion as some late replacement in his June 23rd fight with Ortiz, out-toughing him, busting his jaw in more than one place and ultimately forcing him to remain on his stool after the completion of the 9th-round of a thoroughly entertaining battle.. The good news didn’t stop there for the hardworking Lopez – a fighter who began his pro career down at lightweight – as the powerful Al Haymon then signed Josesito to his stable of big names. Now it looks as though Lopez will be rewarded with another “chance of a lifetime;” this one against the unbeaten, would-be megastar and “next Oscar De La Hoya,” Alvarez.
Information is still coming out, but whispers suggest the Sept. 15th fight will be fought at a catch-weight (surely Lopez cannot go up and compete at a full 154?), with Canelo’s belt on the line. The question is, if the fight comes off, can lightening possibly strike twice: can Lopez ruin all the lofty plans of yet another big star/betting favourite? Not too many people were willing to give Lopez much of a chance heading into the fight with “Vicious” Victor, yet after a bumpy start, Lopez grew in confidence and proved to be Ortiz’ worst nightmare.
If the fight with Canelo does happen at a catch-weight, one that would allow Lopez a fighting chance (say 150-pounds max), the Californian trained by the underrated Henry Ramirez would have to be given at least an outside chance. Fighters underestimate this guy at their peril, and style-wise, Lopez could be a fighter capable of giving the still-improving Canelo a tough time – if he’s not out-weighed by something as ridiculous as 15 to 20-pounds or so come fight night.
Never stopped in his nine-and-a-half year pro career, Lopez would run the risk of losing that KOby-free distinction if he did fight Alvarez. But taking risks and making them pay off is what Lopez does best. Just ask Victor Ortiz!
One thing though: promoter De La Hoya promised that Canelo’s Sept. 15th fight would be “history.” If it is Lopez in a couple of months, I fail to see what will be historic about the fight.