WBO junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor is aiming to make a big statement when he faces former unified lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez on June 10 at the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York City.
The contest will be the first for Taylor since winning a controversial decision over Jack Catterall in February of 2022.
Several attempts to schedule the rematch were unsuccessful due to injuries and conflicts.
Because of the lackluster showing in his last bout, and questions regarding his worth as a fighter, Taylor wants to perform at the highest level possible next month.
The junior welterweight division is currently booming with talent – and the roster is about to get bigger with talk of Devin Haney invading the ranks.
Taylor is very motivated by the negative comments in the aftermath of his fight with Catterall.
“I’ve got the bit between my teeth to make a big, bold statement that I am the best [140-pound] fighter on the planet and the best fighter in the UK pound for pound,” said Taylor to BBC Scotland.
“It’s a huge opportunity. Just saying it – Madison Square Garden, Teofimo Lopez – it just brings a huge smile on my face, I’m absolutely flying for it. I’m just so happy to be fighting in the Mecca of boxing. It gives me that fire in my belly just thinking about it, boxing in that same arena all the greats have boxed in.
“I’ve got the bit between my teeth because of the flak I’ve taken after the last performance. People are quick to forget what I’ve achieved in the sport in such a small amount of time. Eighteen fights and becoming undisputed champion, no-one has ever done it, the first one in the UK. People are quick to forget that.”