Luis Alberto Lopez’s career is in jeopardy after suffering a brain bleed during his fight against Angelo Leo in August. The injury occurred durring the brutal 10th-round knockout by Leo, which resulted in Lopez losing his IBF featherweight title.
Lopez’s co-manager, Hector Fernandez de Cordova, has criticized the officiating of the fight, particularly targeting referee Ernie Sharif. Fernandez described Sharif as one of the worst referees he has seen, accusing him of failing to protect the fighters properly.
The situation worsened when Lopez’s team faced resistance from the New Mexico Athletic Commission about a follow-up medical attention.
Fernandez claimed the commission tried to dissuade him from taking Lopez to the hospital, but he insisted on it, prioritizing Lopez’s health over costs.
Lopez was eventually hospitalized overnight, and a neurologist confirmed that the brain bleed had stopped.
Lopez will need another MRI in six months to determine if he can continue his boxing career.
Fernandez also suggested that the injury was caused by illegal rabbit punches, which are blows to the back of the head. He stated that the brain bleed was located at a 72-degree angle over Lopez’s left ear, indicating it was not from a legal punch.
Angelo Leo defended his actions, asserting that his punches were within the rules and that he did not intentionally aim for the back of Lopez’s head.
This incident has raised serious concerns about fighter safety and the quality of officiating in boxing. Lopez’s future in the ring remains uncertain as his team awaits further medical evaluations.
