Rolando “Rolly” Romero contends that the judges denied him a rightful victory over Teofimo Lopez and is demanding an immediate rematch after losing his WBA welterweight title by majority decision on Saturday night.
Romero asserts that Lopez landed only two clean punches during the bout, while his own blows visibly damaged the new champion multiple times; a scorecard showing a draw convinced him the fight was close enough to merit a rematch.
“It’s like I never get a fair shake. It’s apparent. I clearly outboxed the dude that’s supposed to be one of the best boxers. He’s an Olympian and all this stuff. I clearly outboxed him. I cut him. I hurt him multiple times. It’s clear as day. I deserve a rematch,” said Romero at the post-fight press conference.
Regarding the decision, Romero placed no blame on Lopez, referring to him as his ‘little brother’ and noting that their embrace before the 12th round demonstrated genuine friendship; his frustration was directed solely at the judges, whom he described as politically motivated.
The former champion said that one of his punches that stunned Lopez should have resulted in a knockdown, and that another powerful shot near the round’s end left Teofimo badly shaken, only surviving because the bell rang before Romero could finish him.
Since no contractual clause obligates a rematch, Romero depends on Teofimo and the promoters to agree to a new bout, and he argues that the narrow margin on the official scorecards justifies another opportunity.
He asserted that he is entitled to a rematch, noting that scores such as 114‑114 and 115‑113 do not preclude a rematch.
Rolly acknowledges that he could have applied more pressure, and his extended inactivity allowed Teofimo to secure close rounds without taking significant risks, which may have cost him the belt; while his grievances are understandable, they alone do not guarantee another fight, though the close scoring lends his claim legitimacy.
