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Why Teofimo Lopez is poised to become boxing’s next breakout star

This loaded weekend of combat sports will primarily be centered around Manny Pacquiao vs. Keith Thurman and UFC Fight Night: Dos Anjos vs. Edwards. Lost in the shuffle is Friday’s Top Rank on ESPN+ show, topped by a man who is on the cusp of being a major star in boxing.

21-year-old sensation Teofimo Lopez (13-0, 11 KOs) is a massive favorite to beat Japan’s Masayoshi Nakatani (18-0, 12 KOs), with the winner slated to fight IBF lightweight champion Richard Commey (29-2, 26 KOs). According to Lance Pugmire of The Athletic, a “predetermined deal” is already in place for Commey vs.