Danny Lopez

Biography

Danny Lopez, nicknamed "Little Red," was an American professional boxer who significantly impacted the featherweight division during the 1970s. Born on July 6, 1952, Lopez's boxing career was characterized by his incredible punching power, which earned him a number 26 spot on The Ring magazine's list of "100 Greatest Punchers" in 2003.

Lopez's early life was marked by challenges. He moved from one foster home to another before finally finding a home in Southern California. Despite his difficult upbringing, Lopez embraced his diverse heritage, which included Native American, Mexican, and European-American roots.

Lopez's professional boxing career began on May 27, 1971, with an impressive first-round knockout of Steve Flajole in Los Angeles. He went on to win his first 21 fights by knockout, establishing one of the longest knockout win streaks in boxing history. This remarkable feat, combined with most of these fights in Los Angeles, contributed to his growing popularity in the area.

Lopez faced several notable opponents throughout his career, including Bobby Chacon, Rubén Olivares, and Salvador Sánchez. His fight against Chacon in 1974 was thrilling, although Lopez ultimately lost by knockout in the ninth round.

Lopez's crowning achievement came on November 6, 1976, when he travelled to Ghana to challenge David Kotei for the WBC featherweight title. In front of a massive crowd of over 100,000 Kotei supporters, Lopez outpointed the champion over 15 rounds to claim the title.

Lopez defended his title successfully on multiple occasions between 1976 and 1980 as the reigning WBC featherweight champion. Notable title defences included victories over José Torres, David Kotei (in a rematch), Jose DePaula, and Mike Ayala. His bout against Ayala in 1979 was particularly memorable, with Lopez securing a 15th-round knockout in a fight named Ring Magazine's Fight of the Year.

Lopez's reign as champion ended on February 2, 1980, when he faced Salvador Sánchez in Phoenix, Arizona. Sánchez dominated the fight, knocking out Lopez in the 13th round. The two met again in a rematch on June 21 in Las Vegas, and Sánchez emerged victorious once again, this time by a 14th-round knockout. Following this loss, Lopez announced his retirement from boxing.

Throughout his career, Danny Lopez compiled an impressive record of 42 wins and 6 losses, with 39 of his wins coming by way of knockout. His accomplishments and contributions to the sport were recognized in 2010 when he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Beyond his achievements in the ring, Lopez's story is one of perseverance and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges in his personal life, he became a world champion and a respected figure in the boxing community. His legacy as a powerful puncher and a fierce competitor continues to inspire boxers and fans alike.