Lopez Learns in Unanimous Win Over Nakatani

Oxon Hill, Md. July 19th, 2019- Everybody calm down. The much-hyped and anticipated “Takeover” appeared to hit a publicity speedbump tonight as Mayoshi Nakatani 18-1 12KOs held his own against highly regarded contender Teofimo Lopez 14-0 11KOs.

Ultimately Lopez did what he needed to win on atrocious scores of 118-110 (twice) and 119-109. My unofficial card was 115-113 for Lopez as was most of Twitter.

Expectations were high for Lopez and the unknown Japanese Nakatani wasn’t supposed to be competitive in the public conversation. Acquitting himself well and possibly earning another appearance on ESPN, Nakatani did something better than win.

He made Lopez look average.

Rarely throwing more than two punches in combination, Lopez had a hard time dealing with Nakatani’s height and length. The blazing speed and crushing power were never a factor as Nakatani never appeared wobbled or hurt as Lopez landed his power punches.

Every round was close with Nakatani’s right hand telling the story of the fight. Down the stretch, Lopez turned it up until eating three big right hands in the 10th. Possibly feeling he was in a close call, Lopez closed the twelfth round strong. Like a top level fighter Lopez emptied the tank to close strong.

“They wanted to see me go the distance. I did 12 rounds. I’m still a champ,” Lopez said. “I just need little tune-ups. It’s part of the process. I’m thankful right now. It was my first main event. It was 12 rounds. Am I proud of it? No, but I’m proud that I showed everyone I could go 12 rounds.” Lopez said to Bernardo Osuna after the fight.