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The strained relationship between boxer Teofimo Lopez and his promotional company, Top Rank, has taken another dramatic turn. The 27-year-old, who ed the promotion in 2017 with high expectations, has become increasingly vocal about his dissatisfaction.
This time, his criticism is focused on Top Rank's broadcasting deal with ESPN and has unexpectedly roped in renowned sports commentator Stephen A. Smith.
Lopez Challenges Top Rank's ESPN Deal Amid Growing Tensions
Lopez, known as "The Takeover," has been battling Top Rank on multiple fronts. In October 2024, he filed a legal notice claiming his contract with the promotion was invalid.
Despite his efforts, Top Rank provided sufficient evidence to uphold the agreement, keeping Lopez tied to the promotion. Undeterred, the fighter has turned to social media to air his grievances, particularly about Top Rank's $84 million-per-year deal with ESPN, set to end in 2025.
In a pointed tweet, Lopez questioned whether Top Rank has met the performance benchmarks required under the contract, writing, "I wonder if @trboxing is hitting their minimum benchmarks with their @espn deal. Out of the $89M, I wonder if an Audit would help ESPN!" His remarks suggest that he believes the promotion has failed to deliver value for ESPN's significant investment, and he called for an audit to evaluate the situation.
This isn't the first time Lopez has suggested that Top Rank might be falling short in its obligations. By tagging ESPN and raising concerns publicly, Lopez has further escalated his feud with the promotion.
Stephen A. Smith and Lopez's Frustration With Top Rank
Lopez didn't stop with Top Rank. He also tagged Stephen A. Smith, a prominent ESPN analyst, in his post, urging him to address the matter. Known for his bold opinions, Smith has so far stayed silent on the controversy. Lopez's criticism of Top Rank's leadership, particularly President Todd DuBoef, underscores the growing rift between the fighter and his promoters. He added, "No wonder why ESPN wants to leave TopRank & Duboef," hinting that ESPN itself might be ready to part ways with the company.
Meanwhile, tensions have escalated further with Lopez rejecting Top Rank's latest offer for his title defense against Subriel Matias, raising doubts about the immediate future of his career under the promotion.
What's Next for Lopez and Top Rank?
With Top Rank's broadcasting deal set to expire in July 2025, Lopez's public criticism could not come at a more precarious time for the company. The fallout not only impacts Lopez's career but could also have broader implications for Top Rank's reputation and its ability to renew or secure lucrative broadcast agreements in the future.
As this saga continues to unfold, it remains unclear whether the rift can be resolved or if Lopez will ultimately part ways with the promotion.