Teófimo López left fans stunned after making an unusual statement following his loss to Shakur Stevenson on Saturday night.
After enduring 12 difficult rounds at Madison Square Garden, López appeared before reporters with swollen eyes and offered an emotional message that quickly went viral. “To all my brothers and sisters, I love you guys,” López said. “I never wanted to harm you guys, so my condolences to all you guys, and to the slavery and everything that’s ever happened.”
The unexpected apology sparked confusion and debate across social media, especially given López’s past controversies involving insensitive remarks about other fighters.
Stevenson, meanwhile, kept his focus on the sport and did not speak out about the unexpected apology. “I picked him apart and did what I was supposed to do,” he said after the bout. “This is the art of boxing, hit and don’t get hit and pick guys apart.”
With the victory, Shakur Stevenson captured the WBO junior welterweight title and became a four-division world champion.
Last year, López drew criticism after using racially charged language while trying to promote a future fight. He later insisted he meant no harm and was attempting to provoke interest.