IBF light welterweight CHAMPION, Subriel Matias, predicts a knockout victory over undefeated Liam Paro on Saturday night, June 15 at Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu in Manati, Puerto Rico.
Matias (20-1, 20 KOs) looks to take the undefeated record from Paro (24-0, 15 KOs) in their 12-round bout, live on DAZN.
If Matias can win this fight, he will have interesting options against former WBC 140-lb champion Regis Prograis and possibly another champion in the division.
Matias has been talking about Prograis while promoting Saturday’s fight, which means Hearn has already considered his name as a possibility.
That’s an easy fight for Hearn to make. WBC champion Devin Haney is responsible for the defense.
Paro Accepts the Challenge
“I’m taking the biggest test of all, not just for the title but for the best fighter in the division,” said Liam Paro at today’s final press conference for his title fight with IBF light welterweight champion Subriel Matias on Saturday night, June 15 in Puerto Rico.
“I will fight anyone, and I can prove it. I’m coming to the lions’ den in Puerto Rico to take on the champion. So, I’m ready.”
It’s a big step up for the 28-year-old Paro against the opposition he’s faced during his eight-year career, as he’s never been tested against anyone of note. Paro’s best wins were against Montana Love, Brock Jarvis, and Yomar Alamo.
“We know this is a good fight, a dangerous fight for Subriel, and it’s a dangerous fight for Liam Paro,” said Jacob ‘Panda’ Najar, the trainer of Subriel Matias, who is the IBF light welterweight champion.
“What is more exciting than being in Puerto Rico in front of Matias’ fans in the city, all his people are here, his children, his wife, and everyone here. I believe 100% in my heart I know what we did at camp. We did everything the right way, there are no excuses, and I know on Saturday night, Subriel Matias will win, and his belt will stay here in Puerto Rico.”
Hearn Appreciates Hometown Advantage
“We know that Subriel has had to go on the road many times in his career. Now, in front of his fans who love him, his people. Obviously that will improve his performance but it is important that he calms down on Saturday as well,” said promoter Eddie Hearn.
“Definitely, you have to raise the mind of the batsman so that he knows that he is the one at the top,” said coach Najar. “We all want to make the fans happy, but he is the one who fights. Therefore, we must remain calm; we have to let him know in the camp that we will not be suppressed by cheering, clapping or shouting.
“He is a 21-time champion. He knows what he needs to do. This is the same Subriel that comes out. A warrior, a raider, an animal in the cage.”
“He says you were like an animal locked up in a training camp. Yes, we know you are a dangerous fighter. This guy is a good fighter. Are you expecting a tough challenge on Saturday?” said Sizwe to Matias.
“All your victories ended far away. Do you believe on Saturday night that you stop this man and you are still the most dangerous man in this division?” said Sizwe.
“I don’t think this fight will have 12 rounds,” said Matias. “Everything he showed me, this won’t last 12 rounds. He may come to the box. It’s obvious that he wants to take that title away from me, and I want to take away his unbeaten record.”
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