While both fighters remain recognizable names, the announcement has already prompted criticism over how the title fight came together.
Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) is moving up to welterweight after losing his WBO junior welterweight title in a one-sided unanimous decision defeat to Shakur Stevenson in January. Rather than facing a contender in his new division, the former unified lightweight champion will go straight into a world title fight with the opportunity to become a three-division champion.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs), meanwhile, will be making his first defense roughly 15 months after upsetting Ryan Garcia to win the WBA welterweight title. During that span, he was linked to potential fights with Manny Pacquiao and Devin Haney, but neither materialized.
Some fans have questioned why Romero was allowed to hold the title for so long without making a mandatory defense, while others have argued Lopez should have been required to earn his opportunity by defeating a leading welterweight contender before challenging for a world championship.
One name frequently mentioned is WBA No. 1-ranked Raul Curiel, who many believe should have been next in line for a title opportunity or, at minimum, the type of opponent Lopez should have had to beat before receiving a shot at Romero’s belt.
Despite the debate surrounding the matchmaking, the August 22 clash brings together two of boxing’s most recognizable personalities in a fight that could have major implications for the welterweight division. An official launch press conference is scheduled for July 9 in Los Angeles.
