Former lightweight king Teofimo Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) unanimously defeated the previously unbeaten WBO junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor (19-1, 13 KOs) by twelve round unanimous decision on Saturday night at the Theater in Madison Square Garden.

Taylor started well but Lopez adapted sufficiently enough to beat the Scotsman to the punch thereafter.

Teofimo was close to dropping Taylor later on but was ahead on the judges scorecards by scores 115–113, 115-113, 117-111 to win a decision.

“Josh Taylor is a tough dude,” said Lopez afterwards. “I can see why he beat so many fighters. But you’ve got to counter the counterpuncher. You’ve got to outsmart the man and get in there. And I did that. I think I did enough.This is what it is all about.”

“I questioned myself for a good reason. You guys don’t understand. I’ve always been my worst critic. And you guys got a little glimpse of it. But I’ve just got to ask you one thing, and one thing only. Do I still got it?

“I’m so grateful. This was a bout fixing what we needed to. That’s why I don’t leave my coach. I trust in him a lot.”

“No excuses,” said Taylor. “It wasn’t my best. The better man won tonight. I’ve got no excuses. I fought to the best of my ability. He was better than me tonight. It is what it is. Congratulations to Teofimo.

“I thought it was a close fight. I’d love to do it again. I definitely know I’m better than that, and I know I can beat him still. I’d love to do it again. But he’s the champ, so the ball is in his court.”