Full Breakdown
Liam Paro Set for IBF Title Challenge Against Subriel Matias in Puerto Rico
2/4/2026, 5:16:30 AM
Upcoming Title Fight Details
Australian boxer Liam Paro is poised to challenge for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior welterweight title against unbeaten champion Subriel Matias. The bout is scheduled for June 15, 2024, at the Coliseo Juan Aubín Cruz Abreu in Manatí, Puerto Rico. This fight marks Paro's first opportunity to compete for a world title after previously defending his IBF crown overseas. Promoters Matchroom Boxing and Fresh Productions confirmed the event, emphasizing its significance as the first major title fight in Manatí.
Background on the Fighters
Liam Paro, 28, holds a professional record of 24 wins (15 by knockout) and no losses. He is a former super-lightweight world champion and aims to become only the second Australian-born male fighter to win recognized world titles in multiple divisions, following Jeff Fenech. Paro expressed his excitement, stating, “I’ve waited my whole life for this opportunity. Fighter’s fight and I can’t wait to fight the boogeyman in his backyard.”
Subriel Matias, 30, is a knockout artist with a record of 20 wins (20 by knockout) and one loss. He is known for his aggressive fighting style and has not gone the distance in any of his victories, with his only defeat coming in a points decision against Petros Ananyan in February 2020. Matias will be defending his title for the second time, having previously stopped both Jeremias Ponce and Shohjahon Ergashev in his title bouts.
Significance of the Fight
This matchup is particularly notable as it represents a homecoming for Matias, who has not fought in Puerto Rico since November 2019. The event is expected to draw significant local interest, with promoter Eddie Hearn stating, “It’s an honor for Matchroom to be heading to Puerto Rico for the first time, and there’s no doubt that Subriel and Liam will produce an epic battle to mark the occasion.”
Paro's journey to this title fight has been fraught with challenges, including injuries that led to the cancellation of two scheduled bouts. His last fight was a sixth-round knockout victory over Montana Love in December 2022, which ended a 14-month period of inactivity.
Official Statements & Responses
Promoter Eddie Hearn highlighted the importance of the fight for both Matias and the Puerto Rican boxing scene, while Paro's team emphasized their commitment to the matchup after resolving previous compensation discrepancies. Paro remarked, “This is everything I’ve wanted... to now fight for another world title in Australia is something special.”
Criticism & Opposition
While there is significant excitement surrounding the fight, some critics have raised concerns about the potential for injury or burnout for Paro, given his recent history of inactivity and injuries. However, both fighters appear committed to delivering an exciting bout.
What's Next
As the fight date approaches, anticipation builds for what is expected to be a thrilling contest between two undefeated fighters. The outcome will have implications for both boxers' careers, particularly for Paro, who seeks to establish himself as a two-time world champion.
