Threats of physical harm from Stevenson were audible towards Lopez while protective personnel intervened. Lopez stayed stationary during the altercation, seemingly amused by the unfolding scenario, with a smile on his face.
This heightened animosity arose from increasing strain during the final segment of the media event. A short while prior, Stevenson presented Lopez with an alcoholic beverage at the speaker’s stand, explicitly stating it was meant for Lopez’s parent. This action provoked a clear reaction from Lopez and altered the atmosphere, preceding the intensifying verbal confrontation.
With security maintaining a barrier between the boxers, Stevenson persisted in yelling at Lopez as their respective entourages increased the space. Lopez retorted with words but refrained from advancing. Individuals from both camps approached their athletes as personnel strengthened the divide.
Footage of the occurrence disseminated after the January 29th news conference. Numerous segments were shared across various news organizations and pugilistic platforms, forming part of the standard reporting on the event and its concluding sequences.
Protective staff stayed in place between the athletes for the rest of the media briefing. No additional physical interaction happened subsequent to the initial division, and the competitors did not rejoin before departing the platform.
This episode transpired within the final planned portion of the press conference, happening towards the close of the promotional gathering.
Stevenson and Lopez are set to compete this Saturday at Madison Square Garden. The media briefing ended promptly after the confrontation, with each fighter being led away individually.
The bout is scheduled for Saturday evening.
