Of all the fights scheduled for this loaded weekend of boxing, Friday’s clash between Teofimo Lopez and Arnold Barboza Jr. stands out as particularly compelling. Lopez will defend his WBO junior welterweight championship against Barboza, who has been on a significant success streak.

As stated by Barboza, Lopez has delayed their fight for too long, now facing a more formidable opponent. Barboza’s confidence is grounded in his recent victories over noted fighters, including a decision win against former champion Jose Ramirez.

“I feel like a prospect again fighting every other month,” Barboza stated in an interview with The Ring. “Now is the worst time for him to fight me.”
“I feel like a prospect again fighting every other month,” Barboza stated in The Ring. “Now is the worst time for him to fight me.”

Lopez’s performance can vary widely from one fight to another. He is capable of brilliance or may falter unexpectedly against less formidable opponents. Despite his past ups and downs, Lopez considers himself exceptionally talented, and he plans to showcase that talent this Friday.

“We’re going to go out there and do what I have to do,” Lopez asserted. “I’m going to have fun and beat the brick out of this boy.”
“We’re going to go out there and do what I have to do,” Lopez asserted. “I’m going to have fun and beat the brick out of this boy.”

Where to watch Lopez vs. Barboza

• Date: May 2
• Location: Times Square, New York
• Start time: 6 p.m. ET (Main card)
• How to watch: DAZN PPV Buy Now
• PPV Price: $59.99 (Discount available for concurrent purchase with Saturday’s card)
• Odds: Lopez -286 vs. Barboza +205

Prediction

It ultimately comes down to which version of Lopez shows up. Will he repeat past mental game mistakes? Given Barboza’s skills, Lopez is favored but challenges remain, particularly given Lopez’s inconsistency against strategic fighters. For prediction purposes, it’s assumed Lopez will secure a close decision victory.