Vinny's Corner

The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation for one of the most intriguing matchups of 2026: Teofimo Lopez defending his WBO and Ring Magazine super lightweight titles against the undefeated Shakur Stevenson. Set for January 31, 2026, at Madison Square Garden in New York City, this 12-round bout headlines “The Ring VI” card and promises a clash of styles between Lopez’s explosive power and Stevenson’s slick, defensive mastery.

With both fighters in their primes at age 28, this could be a defining moment for the 140-pound division, potentially crowning a new pound-for-pound contender.

Breaking Down the Fighters

Teofimo Lopez, known as “The Takeover,” burst onto the scene with his stunning upset victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko in 2020, unifying lightweight titles and establishing himself as a star.

Lopez turned pro in 2016 after a successful amateur career. His professional record stands at 22 wins, 1 loss, with 13 knockouts. Standing at 5’8″ with a 68.5″ reach.

Teofimo fights in an orthodox stance and is renowned for his aggressive, counter-punching style. He possesses elite timing, explosive power in both hands, and a flair for showmanship that often draws comparisons to a young Floyd Mayweather mixed with Mike Tyson’s ferocity.

Lopez’s strengths lie in his ability to close distances quickly and land devastating hooks and uppercuts. He’s on a six-fight winning streak, including a dominant unanimous decision over Josh Taylor in 2023 to capture the WBO junior welterweight belt, and recent defenses that showcase his improved patience and ring IQ.

However, his lone loss to George Kambosos Jr. in 2021 exposed vulnerabilities: he can be outboxed if drawn into a brawl, and his defense isn’t impenetrable against faster opponents. Lopez has also dealt with mental health challenges publicly, but he enters this fight with renewed focus, aiming to prove he’s the division’s king.

Shakur Stevenson, a silver medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has been hailed as one of boxing’s brightest young talents since turning pro in 2017. Stevenson started boxing at age five under his grandfather’s tutelage and has compiled an unblemished record of 24 wins, 0 losses, with 11 knockouts.

At 5’8″ with a 68″ reach, the southpaw is a defensive wizard, often described as the sport’s best pure boxer under 30. His style emphasizes footwork, head movement, and precision counterpunching, drawing inevitable comparisons to Mayweather due to his elusiveness and high connect percentage.

Stevenson’s assets include his speed, ring generalship, and ability to adapt mid-fight. He’s a three-division world champion, with recent wins over tough opponents like William Zepeda by unanimous decision, showcasing his dominance in controlling pace and distance.

Stevenson has proven he can go the distance while piling up points. His weaknesses? Critics argue he lacks one-punch knockout power, and his defensive approach can lead to less exciting fights if opponents don’t engage. Moving up to super lightweight for this bout, Stevenson aims to become a four-weight champion, but he’ll need to handle Lopez’s pressure without getting trapped on the ropes.

Head-to-Head Analysis

This matchup pits Lopez’s aggression against Stevenson’s finesse. Lopez will likely press forward, looking to land big shots and force Stevenson into uncomfortable exchanges. If Lopez can cut off the ring and unleash his combinations, he could overwhelm the challenger. Conversely, Stevenson’s southpaw stance and superior defense might frustrate Lopez, allowing him to counter and build a lead on the scorecards. Expect a chess match early, with potential fireworks in the later rounds if Lopez tires or Stevenson opens up.

Key factors: Lopez’s power could be the difference in a close fight, but Stevenson’s undefeated record and higher plus-minus rating (a measure of offensive efficiency minus defensive vulnerability) give him an edge in a technical bout. The New York crowd at MSG could favor the Brooklyn-born Lopez, adding psychological pressure on Stevenson.

The Official Pick

After weighing both fighters’ records, styles, and recent performances, my official pick should Shakur Stevenson to win by unanimous decision. But it is not…. I think Lopez’s explosiveness makes him dangerous.

So while Stevenson’s defensive prowess and ability to outbox aggressive opponents should carry him to victory in a competitive, high-level affair, my gut says Teofimo squeaks out a decision.

And still super lightweight champion of the world. Teofimo cements his status as a pound-for-pound elite.

Where to Watch

The event airs exclusively on DAZN Pay-Per-View worldwide. The main card begins at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT on January 31, 2026, with the Lopez-Stevenson ring walks expected around 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

This fight has all the makings of a classic—don’t miss it!

By Vincent

Photo Courtesy Of Ring Magazine