Fight Preview
Joet Gonzalez has lost three of his last six fights, including two that were for world titles. In Corpus Christi, Texas, on Friday, he will fight IBF featherweight champion Luis Alberto Lopez for a shot at yet another title.
Strange as it may seem, Gonzalez is receiving yet another title fight because of his promotional links. This sort of thing frequently occurs in boxing, when a fighter’s standing and opportunity can change depending on who backs them.
Gonzalez had a stellar 23-0 record to start his career, however he was defeated by Shakur Stevenson in October 2019 for the WBO featherweight title. Gonzalez competed for the WBO belt again in October 2021, losing a decision to Emanuel Navarrete despite a get-right victory in his last fight. Once again, he won a bout before facing tougher opposition, and this time he was defeated by Isaac Dogboe by split decision in a WBO championship eliminator.
Despite having a 3-3 record over the past four years, Gonzalez is now ranked No. 1 by the WBO after a decision win against Enrique Vivas in April.
Although Reiya Abe is now the IBF mandatory challenger after defeating Kiko Martinez in an April championship eliminator, IBF champion Lopez is defending his belt against Gonzalez.
Lopez has won his last eleven bouts in a row. He won a majority decision over Josh Warrington in his first attempt at a world title and took home the IBF belt. Then, in May, Lopez successfully defended his title for the first time by knocking out Michael Conlan in less than five rounds.
If Lopez defeats Gonzalez, he will meet Abe in December to avoid the mandatory challenger waiting period imposed by the IBF, though he will also be keeping an eye on October’s fight between WBA champion Leigh Wood and Warrington and a potential unification bout in the future.
Sign-up at BetUS TODAY and get 125% BONUS. Use the Promo Code BETUSTV125. Terms and Conditions apply.
Let’s check the latest picks, Boxing news, stats and Boxing expert picks for Luis Alberto Lopez vs Joet Gonzalez.. We’ve plenty of Boxing predictions for you to consider.
Luis Alberto Lopez vs Joet Gonzalez Fight Information
- Date: 09/02/2023
- Time: 10 09-15-2023:00 PM ET
- Location: American Bank Center, Corpus Christi, Texas.
- How to Watch Luis Alberto Lopez vs Joet Gonzalez: ESPN+
- Live Stream: sho.com
