It was recently announced that Luis Alberto “El Venado” López (30-2) would return to action on Aug. 10 at the Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, New Mexico, against Angelo “El Chinito” Leo (24-1). The fight will be broadcast on all ESPN platforms as part of Top Rank’s output deal with the sports network, and Lopez’s IBF featherweight title will be at stake.
Lopez has been on a roll, having won 13 straight fights since his 2019 loss to the then-unbeaten Ruben Villa.
Albuquerque’s Leo is also on a winning streak. He has won four straight bouts since suffering his only career loss, against Stephen Fulton in 2021.
Lopez’s manager, Hector Fernandez de Cordova, isn’t quite sure what to expect on fight night but believes his charge will emerge victorious.
“This is a tough fight against a former world champion who is very strong and very disciplined to his style,” Fernandez told BoxingScene.
“I believe Venado has to come with great footwork. It’s one of those fights that it could be a very easy fight or the toughest of your life. Angelo’s style is perfect for Venado’s footwork. We all know what happened with Joet, and all due respect to Joet, but I think Leo is a better overall fighter.”
Fernandez was referring to Lopez’s comfortable unanimous decision victory over Joet Gonzalez on Sept. 15.
Leo was last in the ring in April when he defeated Eduardo Beas via unanimous decision.
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