In what was supposed to be a showcase for defending IBF 140-pound champion Subriel Matias in his homecoming in Puerto Rico, Australian southpaw Liam Paro pulled off a stunning upset. After 12 rounds of intense action, Paro was awarded a well-deserved unanimous decision victory with scores of 116-111 and 115-112 twice. The so-called “most dangerous man in boxing,” Matias, now finds himself in need of a major rebuild with a record of 20-2(20), while Paro remains undefeated at 25-0(15).
Paro displayed incredible skill, heart, and determination throughout the fight, outworking Matias and frustrating him with his ring prowess. Despite facing some questionable refereeing decisions, including a point deduction for a questionable call in round seven, Paro remained focused on his game plan. Utilizing his boxing skills, effective jab, and timely power punches, the 28-year-old Australian put on a masterful performance that left Matias struggling to find his rhythm.
As the dust settles on this unexpected result, questions arise about the legitimacy of Matias as a top-tier fighter. Was he simply a hype job, or did Paro expose vulnerabilities in his game? The former champion, known for making opponents quit, failed to deliver his usual dominance, raising concerns about his future in the division. On the other hand, Paro’s victory solidifies his status as a rising contender in the weight class.
With the outcome of this fight altering the landscape of the division, both fighters face uncertain futures. While a rematch could be a possibility, the location and timing remain unknown. Perhaps a showdown in Australia could be on the cards, allowing Paro to capitalize on his momentum and cement his place among the elite in the division. As for Matias, the road to redemption will be a challenging one, requiring him to reassess his approach and make significant adjustments moving forward.
The unexpected victory by Liam Paro over Subriel Matias in Puerto Rico has sent shockwaves through the boxing world. It serves as a reminder that in the sport of boxing, anything can happen, and no fighter is invincible. As both men reflect on the outcome of the fight, the future holds endless possibilities and potential rematches that could further define their careers.