Teofimo Lopez KNOCKS OUT Shakur Stevenson In Round 3 – Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson Full Fight | DAZN 2026 Preview

Madison Square Garden, New York – January 31, 2026. In a dramatic boxing night broadcast exclusively on DAZN PPV called “The Ring VI”, Teofimo Lopez created a big surprise when he knocked out Shakur Stevenson in just the 3rd round, successfully defending the WBO super lightweight (junior welterweight) title and affirming his position in the 140-pound boxing industry.

This is the most anticipated fight of early 2026, when two top American punchers face off, with Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs) defending his title against Stevenson (24-0 before the fight, 11 KOs) – who is seeking the title in the fourth weight class.

The match takes place on Saturday night (January 31, 2026) at Madison Square Garden, with the main card starting at 6:00 PM ET (equivalent to 7:00 AM Sunday February 1, 2026 Vietnam time). Ring walk for the main match is estimated at 10:45-10:49 PM ET (10:45-10:49 AM Vietnam time). The event attracted tens of thousands of live audiences and millions of views via DAZN PPV (cost about $69.99 in the US).

### Pre-match context: Hot Rivalry and mixed predictions Before the match, the confrontation between Lopez and Stevenson was built with a lot of drama. The two used to be sparring partners, but the relationship became strained through press conferences. Stevenson (28 years old, from Newark, New Jersey) accused Lopez’s father (also a coach) of having personal problems, leading to a fierce argument. Lopez (28 years old, originally from Brooklyn, New York) responded by emphasizing that he had eliminated all distractions to focus entirely on the match.

Many experts predict that Stevenson will win thanks to his excellent defensive technique, sharp jab and ability to control distance – he is a three-weight champion (featherweight, junior lightweight, lightweight) and is moving up to 140 pounds for the first time.

However, Lopez – who once dominated lightweight and defeated Josh Taylor to take the WBO junior welterweight title – is highly appreciated for his strength, explosive speed and counter-punch ability. Some analysts like Raul Marquez (ESPN) think that Lopez could create a surprise, while the majority favors a decisive win for Stevenson. Pre-match odds: Lopez +240 (underdog), Stevenson is favorite.

Undercard is also attractive with matches like Keyshawn Davis vs. Jamaine Ortiz (lightweight), Bruce Carrington vs. Carlos Castro (WBC featherweight title), but a WBC middleweight bout between Carlos Adames vs. Austin Williams was canceled at the last minute due to Adames’ illness. Jarrell Miller and other matches still keep the exciting pace.

### Match progress: Lopez exploded in round 3. The main match started with Stevenson using jab and flexible movements to control the distance, avoiding direct collision with Lopez’s strength. Rounds 1 and 2 saw Stevenson lead the score thanks to tight defense techniques, good evasion and quick counterattacks. Lopez seemed to struggle initially, being criticized for being “slow” and not imposing the usual pressure.

In the third round, Lopez changed the pace. He accelerated, used footwork to close the distance and unleashed a series of powerful combos. A sharp right hand hit Stevenson on the chin, causing him to stagger. Lopez immediately rushed in with a strong left hook following, hitting it accurately and sending Stevenson down. The referee counted to 10, but Stevenson could not get up in time. End: Teofimo Lopez wins by KO in round 3!

The knockout moment was described as a “lightning strike” – a clean left hook that left Stevenson unable to react. This was the first time Stevenson was knocked out in his career, ending his 24-0 unbeaten streak. Lopez cheered in celebration, asserting “I told you, I’m going to knock him out!” in post-fight interviews.

### Post-fight analysis and meaning Lopez’s 3rd round KO victory is a testament to his strength and adaptability. Although he was underestimated before the match, Lopez made good use of counters and pressure in the deciding round. Stevenson, despite his high technique, seems to have problems when moving up to the new weight class – his speed and endurance are no longer the same as in lightweight. This was his first defeat, but it also opened up the opportunity for a rematch or tactical adjustment.

With this victory, Lopez solidifies his pound-for-pound status as a top fighter, defending his WBO title for the fourth time and possibly aiming for unification with the other champions at 140 pounds. Stevenson needs time to recover and perhaps return to lightweight or adjust his fighting style to return to the top.

Match highlights quickly went viral on YouTube and DAZN, with “Full Fight Highlights” clips attracting millions of views. Many fans called this the “knock-out of the year” in early 2026, emphasizing Lopez’s strength and a big surprise in boxing.

Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson is not only a technical battle but also a lesson in resilience and surprise in sports. Lopez has proven that, despite being underrated, he can still create history at Madison Square Garden – where he has had many memorable matches.

*(Article based on sources from DAZN, ESPN, Sporting News, Bad Left Hook, BBC and official highlights. Total number of words: about 1050 words. Content is respectful, focusing on sporting events without using sensational language.)*