Liam Paro has issued a stern warning to Subriel Matias, declaring that the IBF super-lightweight champion will have to force him into the brawl he anticipates on Saturday.
The Australian fighter will challenge Matias at Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu in Manati, Puerto Rico, marking his first world-title bout and Matias’ second defense of the IBF title.
Matias, 32, known for his aggressive style at 140lbs, will face a strategic Paro – who was previously denied the opportunity to challenge Regis Prograis for the WBC title due to injury. Paro, unwilling to engage toe-to-toe unless necessary, aims to outbox his opponent.
“We’ve worked on some game plans,” said Paro, 28. “My trainer, Alfie [Di Carlo], has the best boxing IQ in the game. I won’t share too much, but I’m not going to stand and trade with the guy. That’s what he’s counting on, but my boxing IQ is up there too, and we’re going to outbox him.
“If it turns into a fight, I can handle it. I’ve comfortably won my other fights, but I’ve got the fight in me, and I’m ready for anything.
“I am a fighter, and fighters fight. By taking on the most avoided guy in the division in his backyard, I’m proving that. Winning a world title is a dream, and there’s no better way than to defeat the number one guy in the division. I didn’t want the easy route; I want to beat the best.
“I keep an eye on the other guys in the division, but styles make fights. Alfie Di Carlo has been watching him for four or five years, knowing our paths would cross. Now the day has come, and it’s time to show the world what I’m all about.”
Paro rebounded from the disappointment of missing the fight with Prograis by impressively stopping Montana Love on the undercard of Prograis’ loss to Devin Haney in December.
“It’s a world title fight, so expect a tough night,” he continued. “I’m ready for a 12-round war, giving 110 percent and prepared for anything he throws at me.
“I can adjust on the fly. I have a lot of ability and a high boxing IQ. I don’t think he’s faced anyone with my style before. He’s fought good opponents, and I haven’t fought anyone like him, so we’ll see how it all plays out on the night.”
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