Lopez responded to Stevenson's announcement of retirement

WBO world champion in junior welterweight Teofimo Lopez commented on the words of the WBC title holder in the lightweight division Shakur Stevenson about the end of a career.

“After the performance that Shakur gave with Edwin De Los Santos, and the hype around it, Top Rank said: “We won’t pay you that much next time.” And he said: “To hell with this, I’m the best.” This is how I will end my career.”

I wish him only success and all the best. But you have to agree to a fee reduction. It's necessary. Promoters can promote us for a very long time until we reach the elite level.

The elite level is not achieved instantly. You must begin to climb up step by step. Matchmakers, promoters and TV channels are confidently promoting the fighter. However, you won’t have confidence until you unleash your hands at the elite level. That’s when confidence and boldness comes in,” Lopez said.