As Teófimo López prepares for his highly anticipated fight against Shakur Stevenson at Madison Square Garden, the former lightweight champion opens up about a deeply personal aspect of his life that has transformed his outlook: fatherhood.
Since becoming a father in 2021 to his son, Teófimo López V, the 28-year-old boxer says his priorities have shifted beyond titles and accolades. “Being a father, you already won,” López told The Guardian. “Everything else is just adding more water to my cup.” The new role has encouraged him to reflect more deeply on how he presents himself—both inside and outside the ring. “I can’t be out here looking like a bad representation,” he said. “Not just for him, but for all the other young kids that are looking up to me.”
López’s journey has been marked by remarkable highs and challenging lows, many of which unfolded at the iconic Madison Square Garden. From thrilling victories to disappointing setbacks, the venue has witnessed the complex tapestry of his career. Beyond the physical battles, López has faced public scrutiny for his outspoken nature and off-ring controversies, including social media outbursts and promotional disputes. Yet, he refuses to shy away from these realities. “Of course there are going to be moments where you look vulnerable,” López admitted. “But my résumé speaks volumes. I always aim for the tougher opposition.”
Fatherhood, López explains, has played a pivotal role in helping him overcome mental health struggles and public turbulence following some of his most significant bouts, especially his lightweight unification run. “Anything that haunted me from the past, I’ve let all those things go,” he shared. “I just want to show consistency moving forward.”
The upcoming clash with Shakur Stevenson—renowned for his precision and tactical prowess—offers López another opportunity to redefine himself. Known for his resilience and ability to thrive amid chaos, López views this fight as more than just a contest; it’s a testament to his growth and commitment to a greater purpose. “I was never one to back down from a competitive fight,” he said. “Now we’re here, and I can’t wait to show I’m really about my business.”
Regardless of who emerges victorious, López insists that his motivations transcend personal glory. “I’m good for the next generation,” he affirmed. “This isn’t just for me.”
As fight night approaches, fans eagerly await the showdown between two of boxing’s most compelling figures—one driven by precision, the other fueled by passion and a renewed sense of responsibility as a father. At Madison Square Garden, the ring will become the stage where Teófimo López’s personal transformation and professional ambitions collide in a defining moment of his career.
