Sports Journalist: Eddie Hearn has recently opened up about a particular problem with Teofimo Lopez, offered insight into the much-anticipated face-off between Haney and Ryan Garcia, and also responded to Deontay Wilder’s comments.
Burgeoning world boxing rookie Teofimo Lopez has been a concern for the boxing world, particularly for matchmaker Hearn. The issue being, the Brooklyn-born pugilist has been pulling out of high-profile fights more often than one would normally see. With a 16-0 record, it’s understandable that Lopez would want to protect his unbeaten status. However, Hearn expressed concern.
Hearn stated, “While it’s great that Lopez is making strategic decisions for his career, it does bring an air of uncertainty to the sport itself. High stake matches get audiences, and if a fighter keeps pulling out, it hampers the industry as a whole.” He also mentioned that it might also cause strategic harm to the boxer (Lopez) in the longer run.
Another topic that came up during Hearn’s discussion was the ever-so-anticipated fight between Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia. The match has been expected since both champions have had an unbeaten track record and seem to be in peak physical condition.
Hearn’s opinion on Haney versus Garcia was, “This is a fight that needs to take place now. Both are in good form, and it’s going to make for an interesting contest. Boxing needs these high-stake matches.”
He also expressed excitement and assurance that this would be a clash of the titans and draw large crowds. However, Hearn kept tight-lipped about who he thought was likely to win this one.
With the two main topics out of the way, the conversation then shifted towards Deontay Wilder. The Bronze Bomber recently made headlines for some critical remarks about Hearn, suggesting there is a bias in the British boxing industry, which Hearn was quick to dismiss.
Responding to Wilder’s claims, Hearn said, “Bias can sometimes be mistaken for patriotism. It’s simple; we are encouraging our own. But I do acknowledge that sometimes it can seem overboard. However, vulnerability and impartiality are necessary for the sport, and that’s what we maintain in the British boxing scene.”
Hearn clarified that while he admits UK boxers get a lot of admiration and excitement from fans, that’s part of the charm of boxing and should not be misunderstood as bias.
To conclude, matchmaker Eddie Hearn has dismissed claims of bias in the UK boxing industry, given his two cents on the upcoming Haney vs Ryan Garcia fight, and voiced concern over Teofimo Lopez’s recurring pull-out from matches. While time will tell if Hearn’s insight proves accurate, it’s clear that Hearn deeply cares about the future of the sport.
These issues, though topical at the moment, show the intricate workings behind the scenes of the boxing industry. It’s more than just two men in a ring; it’s a web of strategies, plans, and interests that contribute to the vitality and passion of the boxing world. It goes to show why boxing remains one of the most followed and discussed sports on a worldwide scale.
