JACK’S READY FOR TEOFIMO TITLE SHOT
JACK CATTERALL is eyeing up a shot at world champion Teofimo Lopez after finally getting revenge over Josh Taylor.
The Chorley lightwelterweight edged out his bitter rival in their long-awaited rematch in Leeds on Saturday night.
Catterall suffered a controversial loss to Taylor back in February 2022, which cost him the chance to become undisputed champion.
It sparked a bitter feud between the pair as Taylor went on to defend the WBO title against Lopez after being stripped of the other belts due to inactivity.
But Lopez got the better of Taylor last year and now that Catterall has also got his win over his Scottish foe, he wants to fight the American next.
“I was mandatory for the WBO title for what felt like a lifetime,” said Catterall.
“He (Lopez) beat Taylor before I did. We both have the win over him and I want to prove that I’m better.
“I believe I’ve got the style to beat Lopez and that’s the fight I want.”
Catterall was a deserved winner but the scorecards of 117-111, 117-111 and 116-113 felt a little wide in what was another closely contested bout.
It led to Taylor’s promoter Bob Arum taking the mic in the arena and going on a rant about the officiating in the UK.
“I will never ever allow an American fighter to come here,” said the 92-year-old promoter. “It was an absolute disgrace.”
Catterall stood and watched on with a smile. He was just that bit cuter in tight rounds this time, stamping his authority sufficiently to get the nod.
But he’s got no interest in a trilogy fight with Taylor.
“There’s been a lot of back and forth, a lot of personal messages,” said Catterall.
“It’s done. That chapter is written for me now.
“A world title has always been the dream.”
Taylor, who has now suffered two losses in a row, said: “I thought it was a great fight. Fair play to Jack. He was a better fighter than the first fight.
“But, listen, I thought I just nicked the fight, to be fair.”