Teofimo Lopez Willing to Take Catterall Dispute to Court

Teofimo Lopez is reportedly prepared to take legal action regarding the WBA's order mandating a title defense against Jack Catterall. Lopez is appealing the sanctioning body's ruling in order to pursue a lucrative unification bout with WBC champion Ryan Garcia, targeted for February or Cinco de Mayo weekend. Meanwhile, Catterall stated that he refuses to accept any step-aside deal, insisting on his mandated opportunity.

Boxing 24/7 Wire argues that Lopez's pursuit of court appeals rather than fighting Catterall in December is a tactic of self-preservation. The outlet suggests Lopez is attempting to avoid the risk of losing his title before finalizing a lucrative matchup against Garcia. The WBA has set an October 22 deadline regarding the mandatory situation.