Promoter Eddie Hearn has raised concerns about Liam Paro’s upcoming fight against IBF light welterweight champion Subriel Matias, emphasizing the importance of not falling behind early in the match. According to Hearn, if Paro finds himself trailing by a significant margin, such as 6-0, it will be challenging for him to mount a successful comeback against the hard-hitting Matias, who possesses a high volume of punches that can overwhelm his opponents. The key for Paro, therefore, is to establish a comfortable lead in the first half of the fight and then adopt a more strategic approach to outbox Matias in the latter rounds.
Drawing from Matias’ previous fight against Shohjahon Ergashev, Hearn highlights the risk of facing a powerful and relentless opponent like Matias. Ergashev initially found success against Matias but ultimately succumbed to the champion’s power and relentless pressure, leading to a sixth-round stoppage. While Ergashev may have been a stronger puncher than Paro, the lesson remains clear – Paro must avoid getting worn down as the match progresses. Hearn underscores the significance of Paro’s ability to withstand Matias’ onslaught while maintaining his energy and defensive capabilities to counter the champion effectively.
Challenges and Opportunities
Hearn’s assessment of tonight’s fight underscores the critical role that Paro’s individual strengths and strategies will play in determining the outcome. Despite acknowledging Matias’ formidable reputation, Hearn encourages Paro to approach the match with confidence and adaptability. Paro’s success hinges on his ability to navigate the hostile environment of Puerto Rico, resist the temptation to engage in a brawl early on, and stick to a well-crafted game plan that capitalizes on his own boxing skills.
While Hearn expresses his desire for Paro to elevate his profile by facing top-tier opponents like Teofimo Lopez, he recognizes the challenges of enticing established champions to take on up-and-coming fighters like Matias. Lopez’s cautious approach to selecting opponents based on financial gain rather than sporting merit complicates the prospect of a potential clash with Matias. Hearn’s commentary reflects the broader complexities of matchmaking in boxing, where financial considerations often overshadow the quest for true sporting glory.
Liam Paro faces a formidable challenge in Subriel Matias, requiring a blend of strategic acumen, mental fortitude, and physical resilience to overcome the champion’s relentless assault. As Hearn aptly notes, Paro’s ability to avoid an early deficit and withstand Matias’ power will be crucial in shaping the outcome of tonight’s bout. Whether Paro can rise to the occasion and secure victory remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the stage is set for a compelling showdown between two talented fighters in pursuit of greatness.