"I show my best fights when I am counted out and doomed to defeat," said Teofimo Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs), who on January 31 in New York is preparing to defend his WBO title in the 63.5 kg weight category.
Usually, the reigning champion is the bookmakers' favorite, but since in this case his opponent is Shakur Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs), who is moving to a heavier weight class, the champion is the underdog.
"The key to winning that evening is mentality. The winner is the one who is stronger mentally, not physically. I've always believed in myself, but I often hear that I fight best when others don't believe in me. He agreed to this fight only because he had no other suitable option. I will show everyone and prove that his defense is not as flawless as some claim. I will tear him apart and show the world that he also has flaws," added Lopez.
