Teofimo Lopez scored another victory on Friday (Photo: Mikey Williams – Top Rank)

By Chris Robinson

On Friday night, July 19, unbeaten lightweight contender Teofimo Lopez earned a possible title shot by defeating the very tough Masayoshi Nakatani over 12 rounds. The action took place on ESPN + from The Theater at the MGM National Harbor, in Oxon Hill, MD, with Lopez emerging victorious despite a very game foe in his face.

Lopez (14-0, 11 KO’s) had been on a big knockout streak as of late, raising eyebrows along the way, but he was forced to go past the seventh round for the first time in his career.

“They wanted to see me go the distance,” said Lopez. “I did 12 rounds. I’m still a champ. I just need little tune-ups. It’s part of the process. I’m thankful right now. It was my first main event. It was 12 rounds. Am I proud of it? No, but I’m proud that I showed everyone I could go 12 rounds.”

Lopez will now likely face IBF lightweight champion Richard Commey in his next bout.

Chris Robinson can be reached at CRobinson@hustleboss.com