The Five Most Likely Opponents For Arnold Barboza Jr.'s Next Fight: What's Next After The Lopez Loss?

The boxing world is buzzing with speculation regarding the next move for Arnold Barboza Jr., the former WBO Interim Super Lightweight champion, following a pivotal year of high-stakes bouts. As of December 2025, the hard-hitting contender does not have an official fight date or opponent scheduled, leaving fans and analysts to eagerly await his announcement.

Barboza Jr.'s immediate future is one of the most compelling storylines in the stacked 140-pound division, as he looks to rebound from his first professional loss. His next opponent will determine his path back to a world title shot, with a lineup of elite contenders like Regis Prograis, Frank Martin, and Richardson Hitchins all being floated as potential matchups for early 2026.

Arnold Barboza Jr. Professional Boxer Profile & Biography

Arnold Barboza Jr. has established himself as a top-tier contender in the junior welterweight division through a decade of consistent performance and exciting fights. His journey from a warehouse worker to a world-class athlete is a testament to his dedication to the sport.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

• Full Name: Arnold Barboza Jr.
• Date of Birth: December 9, 1991
• Age: 34 (as of December 2025)
• Birthplace: South El Monte, California, USA
• Stance: Orthodox
• Division: Super Lightweight (Junior Welterweight)
• Professional Record: 32 Wins, 1 Loss, 0 Draws (32-1-0)
• Knockout Percentage: Approximately 34.38% (11 KOs)
• Height: 5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
• Reach: 72 in (183 cm)
• Notable Titles Held: WBO Interim World Super Light Title
• Promoter: Golden Boy Promotions
• Nickname: He does not use a specific nickname, preferring to be known simply as "Jr."

Recap: The Last Two Fights and The First Career Loss

Barboza Jr.'s 2025 campaign was a career-defining period, featuring two major bouts that solidified his status as a top-five fighter in the 140-pound landscape. These fights are crucial in understanding the urgency and significance of his next move.

The WBO Title Eliminator Win Over Catterall

The year began with a high-stakes clash against the formidable British contender, Jack Catterall, on February 15, 2025. Catterall, known for his slick movement and technical skill, pushed Barboza Jr. to the limit. Barboza Jr. ultimately secured a victory via a split decision, a hard-fought win that demonstrated his grit and ring IQ. This victory was a major step, positioning him for a shot at the WBO world title.

The Teofimo Lopez Championship Bout

Barboza Jr.'s undefeated streak came to an end on May 2, 2025, in a highly anticipated showdown against WBO Super Lightweight Champion Teofimo Lopez at Times Square in New York. The fight, which was for Lopez's WBO Super Lightweight title, was a fierce battle that saw Barboza Jr. suffer his first professional defeat. The loss, while a setback, did not diminish his standing in the division. He proved he belongs at the elite level, and the experience against a former unified champion like Lopez is invaluable. The rivalry, which had built up considerable heat, has led to immediate talk of a potential rematch down the line.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

The Five Most Likely Opponents for Arnold Barboza Jr. in 2026

With Barboza Jr. now aiming to re-establish his momentum, his next fight will likely be a high-profile bout to keep him relevant in the title picture. The Super Lightweight division is incredibly deep, offering several lucrative and challenging options.

1. Frank Martin

The most concrete rumor circulating suggests a potential clash with undefeated American prospect Frank Martin in the spring of 2026. This would be a compelling matchup between two highly skilled, undefeated-until-recently American fighters. A win over Martin would immediately propel Barboza Jr. back into the mandatory challenger position for a major title.

2. Regis Prograis

A former two-time world champion, Regis Prograis is a marquee name that would provide Barboza Jr. with a massive opportunity. Prograis is a powerful southpaw with a reputation for thrilling fights. A victory over a fighter of Prograis's caliber would be a defining moment in Barboza Jr.'s career, proving he is a top-three fighter in the division and erasing the memory of the Lopez loss.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

3. Richardson Hitchins

Richardson Hitchins is another undefeated, highly-touted prospect in the 140-pound division. A fight with Barboza Jr. would serve as a major step-up test for Hitchins and a chance for Barboza Jr. to take the young fighter's momentum. This matchup offers a classic veteran-contender dynamic that promoters love, and it would have significant title implications.

4. Rolando 'Rolly' Romero

Rolando 'Rolly' Romero, known for his power and controversial personality, is a high-risk, high-reward opponent. A fight with Romero would generate significant media attention and a large payday. Barboza Jr.'s technical skill versus Romero's raw power and aggression makes for an exciting stylistic clash that fans would clamor to see.

5. Teofimo Lopez Rematch

While Lopez has his own mandatory obligations, the rivalry with Barboza Jr. was intense, and a rematch would be a huge event. Barboza Jr. would undoubtedly want a second chance to avenge his first loss. If Lopez successfully defends his title, a Barboza Jr. rematch could be a major pay-per-view event, especially if Barboza Jr. can secure a dominant victory in his next outing.

Topical Authority: The Super Lightweight Division Landscape

The 140-pound division is arguably the most competitive in boxing, packed with high-level talent. Barboza Jr.'s next fight is more than just a rebound; it's a strategic move in a division dominated by world-class fighters.

The current champions and top contenders—including Devin Haney, Subriel Matias, and Jose Carlos Ramirez—all represent potential future opponents for Barboza Jr. His recent run, which includes the win over Catterall and the championship experience against Lopez, means he is still positioned at the top of the contender list. Any fight he takes will be a title eliminator in all but name, as a win will keep him firmly in the conversation for a unification or a shot at the other divisional belts (WBC, IBF, WBA).

The boxing world anticipates that Barboza Jr. and his team at Golden Boy Promotions will announce his return to the ring early in the new year. Whether he faces a rising star like Frank Martin or a former champion like Regis Prograis, his next performance is critical to securing his place as a mandatory challenger for a world championship in late 2026.