Liam Paro achieved a significant career milestone by defeating Subriel Matias in a dramatic upset to claim the IBF 140-pound title. The match took place at Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu in Manatí, Puerto Rico, where the judges scored the bout 115-112, 115-112, and 116-111 in favor of Paro.
Despite being an underdog and facing Matias, a ferocious puncher with a history of overwhelming his opponents, Paro remained steadfast in his strategy. Matias had previously defeated unbeaten contenders Jeremias Ponce and Shohjahon Ergashev after strong starts, but Paro was undeterred.
From the opening round, Paro was on the offensive, landing significant shots despite Matias’ power. Referee Luis Pabon, who has been criticized in the past, notably warned Paro and his trainer for not respecting his authority. In the third round, Matias’ offense began to show, but Paro continued to handle the pressure well.
Paro regained control in the fourth and fifth rounds, outboxing Matias and extending the fight beyond Matias’ usual reach. Although Matias demonstrated his destructive power in the sixth round, Paro showed resilience, even as his corner offered encouragement between rounds.
Controversy arose when Pabon deducted a point from Paro for holding and hitting, but Paro maintained focus and outboxed Matias for most of the seventh round. The eighth round saw Matias landing significant body shots, but Paro managed to make it to the bell.
In the ninth, Matias drove Paro to the ropes with a flurry of punches, but Paro responded effectively, slowing Matias down. Paro stood his ground in the tenth and delivered left hands upstairs, while Matias continued targeting the body.
The eleventh round marked uncharted territory for Paro, who outworked Matias and avoided significant damage. Matias, who had never fought past the eleventh round and previously lost his only other fight that went to the cards, couldn't land decisive blows. Paro continued his disciplined approach, frustrating the partisan crowd but securing his victory.
With this win, Paro improved his record to 25-0 (15 KOs), while Matias fell to 20-2 (20 KOs). Paro's victory marks a turning point in the 140-pound title picture, ending Matias’ reign and showcasing Paro’s perseverance and skill.