Junior welterweight Michel Rivera is setting his sights high, and he’s not holding back on who he wants next. Rivera, nicknamed “La Zarza Ali,” is calling out Teofimo Lopez Jr., who has been making more headlines for his social media activity than his in-ring performances. Rivera, however, is open to fights with Devin Haney or Ryan Garcia if they’re looking for a challenge.
Rivera (26-1, 14 KOs), 26, last fought in July, earning a split decision over Hugo Alberto Roldan (22-3-1, 7 KOs) in a bout many felt was closer than it should have been. Before that, Rivera secured a marquee win in November against former titleholder Sergey Lipinets (18-3-1, 13 KOs), marking his first fight at junior welterweight after a tough loss to Frank Martin at lightweight in December 2023.
Now, Rivera has set his sights on Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs), 27, who last fought in July, defeating Steve Claggett (38-8-2, 26 KOs). Lopez’s performance, coupled with Claggett’s up-and-down career, hasn’t impressed Rivera.
“He’s a fighter, and he’s famous, but I believe I have the skills to beat him,” Rivera said. “I’ve seen him lose, like to Sandor Martin, and they still gave him the fight. He’s not as good as they say, and I know I can beat him. I’m already a name in this division, and he’s out here fighting guys with eight losses. I’m one of the best at 140, but they just want fights they think they can win. I want a world title, and I’m ready to make this happen.”
Rivera hasn’t ruled out the possibility of facing Haney (31-0, 15 KOs) or Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs), both currently inactive. Haney’s majority decision win over Garcia was recently overturned to a no-contest due to Garcia failing pre-fight drug tests, while Garcia is serving a suspension.
“Boxing is more of a business than a sport. I know those fights will happen eventually,” Rivera said. “When Ryan Garcia is looking for an opponent, my name is always on the table, but they never take it. These big guys don’t want to fight real fighters like me.”
Currently ranked No. 14 by both the IBF and WBC, Rivera believes his well-rounded skill set makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.
“I can punch, I move well, and I’m ready for any of them,” Rivera said.
Lucas Ketelle is a proud member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and author of “Inside The Ropes of Boxing” (available on Amazon). Contact him on X @LukieBoxing.
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