A Busy 2013 for the Riverside Fighter
Josesito Lopez plans on returning to the ring this spring. Word is he is the frontrunner for an Amir Khan match in April. He’s also got a lot of plans coming up in the next couple of months, not just as a pro fighter but also wearing a brand new hat–as a boxing trainer! I caught up with the “People’s Champ” this week to hear all about his new plans.
“We will know more in about a week or two,” the Riverside puncher told me at Wednesday’s press conference for his stablemate Chris Arreola’s upcoming bout versus Bermane Stiverne. “An announcement could be made very soon about who I’m fighting!”
The SoCal slugger was launched into the hearts and minds of boxing fans by turning around his underdog status with his victory over “Vicious” Victor Ortiz last summer. A battered and bruised Josesito broke the jaw of the champ and forever will be remembered for the shot heard round the world.
After his battle against Canelo Alvarez, Lopez took some time off but has stayed in the gym. The former WBC Silver Welterweight Champion stated he’ll fight anyone from 147 with future plans of moving back down to 140.
Will Jose’s next foe be Amir Khan? And will there be a Victor Ortiz rematch in the future?
“I’m in the gym training but no sparring yet,” he replied with a smile, on staying disciplined and focused as another marquee matchup looms ahead. “We’ll announce the next fight soon, I promise!”
Co-promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions and Goossen Tutor Promotions, the scrappy boxer continues to impress his promoters Ken Thompson and Dan Goossen with his gritty and courageous action on the canvas.
At the Arreola media event (Jose and Chris also both train with Henry Ramirez), promoter Goossen raved about Jose’s performance in 2012.
“I think the Lopez-Ortiz fight was “Fight of the Year” and I would say Jose was “Fighter of the Year,” the well-regarded promoter told me.
“Jose has a great future ahead of him,” he added. “And I really respect the discipline fighters have–the discipline in training and the sacrifices that fighters make.”
Most fans just see the bright lights and the 12 rounds of action under the spotlight. Many forget the countless days and nights of cold and lonely early morning workouts, the strict diet one must maintain, and the endless rounds of sparring in empty gyms.
And now Jose’s putting in even more time in the gym. Training out of the II Feathers Boxing Gym, he’s pulling double duty as a boxing coach.
His younger brother Ralph Lopez will be making his comeback as a pro fighter and his trainer is none other than his older bro, Jose.
“I’m really excited about my brother’s fight,” Jose says, his eyes lighting up when we talk about his sibling’s return to the ring. “He’s the first fighter I’ve trained and we’re really looking forward to his fight in March!”
Josesito will be the chief second in the corner when Ralph fights on an upcoming Thompson Boxing show with President Ken Thompson and General Manager/Matchmaker Alex Camponovo.
“Training has been going well with my brother,” Jose confirms. It’s been a time of resurgence and renewal for the Lopez family. Their father was recently released from prison and the holidays brought forth a welcome reunion. Jose and Ralph also have a kid brother in Victor Lopez, who just may be the next generation’s champ, the “Next Great Hope.”
But for now, the plans are for Ralph’s fight in March where he’ll be going after his sixth victory as a pro. Lopez said he’ll also be attending some Thompson Boxing events in February along with rooting for his stablemate Chris Arreola in his upcoming bout.
Josesito, a former WBC and NABF belt holder, remains a big draw with the local fans and beyond.
He takes time for community and charity events and meeting his fans.
“I’m planning on going to the Thompson fights on February 22,” the busy “Riverside Rocky” comments, “and I may be at an open workout and fan event also in February.”
Look for Team Lopez to continue to hit their stride this year as both brothers return to the ring.
Photos by Michele Chong
Good and determined fighter .
good for lopez! def. a nice guy and always enjoy watching his fights!
Subject: Julio Cesar Chavez JR
Every time I heard that Julio reserves another fight against El Maravilla Martinez because he won the last round of the fight my blood boils. How ignorant, stuped and iliterate about boxing the promoters, and newsmedia think the fans are????!!! The only think that Chavez reserves is dog pupu!! He needs to fight another fighter before Martinez, and someone that can challenge him. Then and if he looks good, he should challenge Martinez. I paid the $69.00 pay per view the last time. This time if they fought again I would paid NADA!!! not before Chavez cleans his act and fights another fighter.
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