George Kambosos once felt slighted by his home fans in Australia. But he has no such complaints after journeying to America and defeating former undisputed lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez.
George Kambosos returned home to Australia early last Thursday morning. About 200 fans were on hand to greet him with a hero’s welcome. Kambosos proudly wore the WBA, IBF, and WBO belts. These are his trophies from earning what many boxing pundits feel is the most significant victory in Australian boxing history.
“It feels very good to be home,” Kambosos said while enjoying his victory. “These belts are not only my belts,” Kambosos shared the win with all of his friends, family, and countrymen.
George Kambosos finally got his chance to fight Teofimo Lopez in New York City’s Madison Square Garden on November 27. The bout would have taken place last summer. But Kambosos and Lopez endured numerous delays. When he finally got his chance to fight, the Australian dazzled boxing fans with a split-decision upset victory over Lopez.
Kambosos is already planning to fight again in April or May of 2022. He is not yet sure of his opponent. But he is adamant that he will defend his titles in front of a crowd in his native Australia.
Melbourne and Sydney are the two Australian cities with the best chance of hosting Kambosos’ title defense. The unified champion says he may seek undisputed glory by facing Devin Haney. Other fighters considered include Gervonta Davis, Ryan Garcia, and Vasiliy Lomachenko.
“We’re bringing the big fights here now,” Kambosos says proudly. “We’re going to bring them to a massive stadium, 80,000 people. I’ve earned that. I deserve that.”
George Kambosos Reflects on the Fruits of His Labor
For now, George Kambosos is content to relax while enjoying his success with family and friends. He says he will take time to grieve the grandfather he lost while preparing for his big fight. He also wants to spend time with his third child, born the same day his grandfather passed away.
Kambosos knows that his victory means he soon has more work ahead of him. “I’m going to train,” he explains. “Because now I am the one being hunted.”