Boxing’s “boogeyman” Subriel Matias suffers stunning upset to Liam Paro, Eddie Hearn labels it a “shock victory"
Subriel Matias and Liam Paro faced off for the IBF light welterweight world title in front of a packed Puerto Rican crowd. Matias was eager to defend his title in front of home fans, but instead was handed a unanimous decision defeat.
After having retired his last five opponents in their corners, many anticipated another stoppage victory for 'El Orgullo de Maternillo'. But Paro was not intimidated by the power of his opponent, and fought fire with fire en route to becoming a world champion.
The Australian maintained his undefeated record, and moved to 25-0 with his victory over Matias.
Matchroom Boxing chairman, Eddie Hearn, who works as the promoter for both boxers, reflected on the incredible victory for Paro during an interview after the fight. He said this:
"I can't actually believe what I saw. There's no secret, Subriel Matias was a massive favorite tonight. We all know Liam is a world class fighter, but to come here and dethrone the champion was a massive ask... Subriel started very slow, and you just expected him to hunt down Liam Paro and catch up with him."
He continued:
"An incredible performance, one that goes down as Upset of the Year, Performance of the Year, and one that completely changes Liam Paro's life... A shock victory. As good as we know Liam is, not many expected that tonight."
Watch Eddie Hearn's interview below:
Liam Paro reflects on his incredible victory over Subriel Matias
Liam Paro's win over Subriel Matias has made shockwaves throughout the boxing world, with the gritty Australian securing a unanimous decision victory 115-112, 116-111 and 115-112 on the judges' scorecards.
He became the new light welterweight IBF world champion, and with no rematch clause included in his fight contract, fights with fellow divisional champions such as Devin Haney or Teofimo Lopez could certainly come Paro's way.
Whilst the collective boxing world may have been surprised by Matias' defeat, the undefeated 25-0 fighter was far from stunned by his achievement. He reflected on his championship victory during an interview with Matchroom Boxing, where he said this:
"I'm a man of my word. I made a promise to Greavesy, and I've f**king done it. To me that means the most. It's what dreams are made of... I said I'd fight anyone, anytime, anywhere and I just proved I can do that. I'm the man of the division now."
Watch Liam Paro reflect on beating Subriel Matias below: