Richardson Hitchins may have checked off a lifelong dream by becoming a world champion, but he wants more.

For the 25-year-old, there’s more to do. His IBF 140-pound title can use a few friends and his bank account can use a few extra zeros. Some fighters are devoid of those opportunities due to the lack of star power and name recognition in their given weight class.

For the most part, the junior welterweight division has a few respectable names but for Hitchins, only one fighter at 140 pounds can push him into the realm of superstardom.

“Right now, Teofimo, that’s the guy,” said Hitchins to a group of reporters. “That’s the guy that can take my career to the next level.”

Teofimo Lopez, whether you love him or hate him, is one of the most accomplished fighters in his weight class. The Ring and WBO titlist knocked off Vasiliy Lomachenko when he was at the top of his game back in 2020. He also took down Josh Taylor in 2023. In both cases, he was a prohibitive underdog.

Over the last few weeks, Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs) has entertained a unification with Hitchins. And while it appeared as though they were on the verge of getting it on, negotiations went nowhere.

A matchup between them could be revisited but Lopez has business to take care of. On May 2nd, he’s slated to face Arnold Barboza in Times Square in New York City.

Hitchins, in the meantime, doesn’t appear to be interested in sitting around with his hands crossed. He knows closed mouths don’t get fed and the Brooklyn champion is as hungry as ever.

Lopez, of course, is his preferred choice but he isn’t exactly a picky man. As long as he’s back in the spotlight, Hitchins is willing to face every and anyone.

“We want the biggest and best fights in boxing.”