Boxing News: Jeff Lacy Still Challenging Bernard Hopkins

ST. PETERSBURG, FL (March 28, 2005) – Undefeated IBF super middleweight champion Jeff “Left Hook” Lacy reiterated his offer to defend his title against undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins in light of comments made to the Las Vegas Review-Journal by Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, Hopkins' promotional company,  that there is still no deal for a fight against Jermain Taylor.

Yesterday, Schaefer stated in an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, “I keep reading where this fight is done, and I don't know where that's coming from . . . It sure is no done deal.”

“The way the negotiations between Bernard and Jermain are going, they might as well title the fight 'Bored & Taylor,'” said Lacy. “I just want to remind Bernard and his promoters I am a done deal and I am ready to move down to a catchweight and defend my title against him for the original purse Taylor was offered, $1.5 million. Bernard keeps talking about moving up to the light heavyweight division to fight Glenn Johnson, so surely coming up four or five pounds cannot be an obstacle in fighting me for my title.”

Lacy, 19-0 (15 KOs), one of the busiest world champions, has successfully defended his twice since winning it last October.

“If Bernard really wants to fight a member of the U.S. Olympic Class of 2000, Jeff is ready to accommodate – with a new title for Bernard too,” added promoter Gary Shaw.  “We will not ask for a rematch clause or even options. Jeff is a turn-key package that is ready, willing and able to sign on the dotted line and make the fight.”