Devin Haney and Teofimo Lopez are getting ready for a big fight at super-lightweight. Haney's team wants Lopez to agree to drug testing before they make the match official.
The two fighters missed their chance to face each other at lightweight. Lopez lost his unified titles to George Kambosos Jr., who Haney then beat to become undisputed champion. Now, they're both at 140 pounds. Lopez holds the WBO title after beating Josh Taylor, while Haney is the WBC Champion in Recess after his win over Regis Prograis.
Bill Haney, Devin's dad and coach, set a clear condition for the fight. He said:
"If it's REAL beef, Teofimo Lopez stop barking and step up. Join VADA and show the world you're clean and ready to fight Devin Haney. No excuses. No shortcuts. Champions prove they're the best."
Lopez responded, saying he's willing to do it. He suggested:
"But I'm not in London! You guys are too cool. My alternative is to make a video of today's time and date so I can get tested for all the same things Devin is getting. That good? (ABP) testing, to be exact, Mr. 2023 Manager Of The Year."
Haney's last fight against Ryan Garcia ended in controversy. It was first ruled a loss for Haney, but later changed to no contest because of Garcia's doping violations. Haney has since taken legal action against Garcia and signed up for year-round VADA testing. He's planning to fight again in March, almost a year after the Garcia bout.
Lopez is dealing with his own issues. He's in a contract dispute with his promoter, Top Rank. His last fight was a points win over Steve Claggett in June 2024. He's been promising fans "something huge" for his next fight.
Both fighters want to prove they're the best at super-lightweight. If they can agree on the testing, we might see them settle their beef in the ring soon.
