In a thrilling showdown between defending IBF 140-pound champion Subriel Matias and Australian southpaw Liam Paro, there was no shortage of drama in Puerto Rico. The highly anticipated fight showcased the contrasting styles of the two fighters, with Matias being dubbed the “most dangerous man in boxing” and Paro being praised for his skill, guts, and determination.
The Unforeseen Outcome
After 12 intense rounds of action, questionable refereeing decisions, and displays of incredible resilience, it was Paro who emerged victorious with a well-deserved unanimous decision. The judges’ scorecards read 116-111 and 115-112 x2 in favor of Paro, improving his undefeated record to 25-0 with 15 knockouts. On the other hand, Matias suffered his second professional loss, dropping his record to 20-2 with all victories coming by knockout.
Contrary to expectations of a Matias showcase in his home country, Paro delivered a masterful performance that overshadowed the former champion. Paro showcased exceptional boxing skills, outworking Matias, absorbing his best punches, and even overcoming some questionable calls from the referee. The Australian southpaw displayed a diverse skill set, utilizing his jab, strategic holding, and sharp power punches to control the fight and secure the victory.
Matias, who was known for making his opponents quit, appeared overconfident and lethargic during the fight. His lackluster performance, particularly in rounds where he seemed to do very little, raised questions about his abilities and preparation for the bout. Despite his efforts to mount a comeback when he realized he was falling behind, Matias struggled to find his rhythm and capitalize on his strengths. The absence of his signature aggressive style and knockout power was evident throughout the fight.
The Aftermath and Future Prospects
As the boxing world reels from the unexpected upset, speculation arises about the future of both fighters. Was Matias overhyped, and did Paro expose his weaknesses? Has the knockout artist been neutralized, or was this simply an off night for him? Regardless of the unanswered questions, Paro’s remarkable victory cannot be understated. The underdog challenger defied the odds, executed his game plan flawlessly, and emerged victorious in stunning fashion. While a rematch remains a possibility, the boxing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the unpredictable journeys of Paro and Matias.