Lopez doesn’t need rounds to settle. Stevenson usually does. That contrast defines the struggle.
Lopez arrives as a two-division champion who has already handled pressure nights without losing structure. Stevenson brings a southpaw shell that drains time and constricts space. Lopez punches through guards and steps in behind his jab without reaching over. He closes the distance without rushing.
Stevenson needs to keep his front foot outside, touch the body to slow Lopez, and cleanly clinch when pressure comes inside. Any decay invites a right hand down the pipe or a left hook off the break.
Timing remains Stevenson’s plus point. The issue is practical. Can he hold ground without giving up position, or does the added size push him into longer clinches and referee warnings. Control still wins rounds. It costs more here.
What Lopez previously learned from southpaws
Lopez remains composed against lefties. He holds position long enough to pull the jab, then fires straight back. His best performances came against southpaws who tried to figure him out without shifting his base. He keeps his feet under him, changes rhythm and hits short bunches that sway judges.
Against Stevenson, Lopez must withstand push and rely on consistent output to stack rounds. This fight requires patience from both sides.
This issue of Rummy’s Corner will attempt to answer that question with a breakdown and preview of the upcoming showdown between Lopez and Stevenson. Please watch and enjoy the video. This is Rummy’s Corner (produced and narrated by Geoffrey Ciani).
Date: January 31
Start time: 17:00 local; 8 p.m. ET; 01:00 UK
Streaming Platform: DAZN PPV
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York
Fight Card: Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson, Ring VI Main Event
