Undefeated world champion boxer Teofimo Lopez has publicly stated he was "fired" by promoter Turki Alalshikh, a surprising development occurring only weeks after his recent appearance in Riyadh.
The 27-year-old boxer, a two-weight world champion, was reportedly on the verge of finalizing an agreement to fight Devin Haney in August.
Reports indicated that Lopez`s team had reached an agreement for the match to take place in Saudi Arabia earlier in the week.
However, the former two-division champion subsequently posted on social media, making unexpected remarks directed at Alalshikh.
In one post, he announced, "I just got fired, guys." He added cryptically, "However, before things get better, bad things must happen first! #Resurrection."
Earlier the same day, Lopez shared an image of himself seemingly begging on the street, holding a small dog and a sign reading: "$1-a-day keeps the haters away."
According to boxing journalist Dan Rafael, who cited three involved sources, the planned fight between Lopez and Devin Haney, reportedly agreed upon but not yet signed for August 16 in Riyadh at 145 pounds, is now "in jeopardy" following Lopez`s social media activity.
Alalshikh himself posted a cryptic message on social media shortly after, stating, "Maturity is to realise, most things don't deserve a reaction," without directly addressing Lopez`s claims.
Lopez maintains a strong professional record of 22-1. He recently defended his WBO junior welterweight title against the previously undefeated Arnold Barboza Jr., winning by unanimous decision (116-112, 116-112, 118-110) in a fight where he landed 127 punches out of 574.
Following his victory, Lopez expressed a desire to challenge undefeated unified welterweight champion Jaron `Boots` Ennis, stating, "You know me guys, I go after the tough challenges. I want to see Boots. I`m Dora the Explorer and I`m looking for Boots."
Oliver Croft