ARNOLD BARBOZA JR declared Teofimo Lopez as the next fight he wants following his win in Manchester last night.

The unbeaten Californian travelled to the UK to face Jack Catterall and edged past the Chorley native by split decision at the Co-op Live Arena.

Barboza’s win earned him the WBO Interim super lightweight belt and a mandatory world title shot against Teofimo Lopez. The champion could return this summer having not fought since retaining his title against Steve Claggett last June. It remains to be seen, however, whether or not ‘The Takeover’ will still be in possession of his championship as he chases more lucrative fights.

Should Lopez vacate the title then Barboza, 32-0 (11 KOs), could be elevated to full champion status but for now, at least, he remains top of his list.

“He’s the number one name but if I can’t get him then any big fight will work,” Barboza told Boxing News.

Asked whether or not he feels Lopez has avoided fighting him, Barboza replied: “For the past four years.”

Lopez, always active on social media, responded to a post on X by DAZN Boxing featuring a video of an emotional Barboza in his dressing room afterwards holding his belt.

“It’s an Interim Belt. Relax buddy! Not classified as a world title. I don’t care what any of you make it seem. YOU KNOW WHO THE REAL CHAMPION IS.”