Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has recently made a significant signing, adding IBF light welterweight champion Subriel Matias to his Matchroom Boxing stable. This move not only bolsters Hearn's roster but also brings in one of the most avoided and arguably the best fighters in the 140-lb division. Matias, with his impressive 100% knockout percentage, will now have his fights showcased on the popular streaming network DAZN, offering subscribers the chance to witness the prowess of this exceptional fighter.
Interestingly, Top Rank, another prominent boxing promotional company, did not manage to secure Matias for bouts against their own fighter, WBO 140-lb champion Teofimo Lopez. It's possible that they weren't willing to risk their star Teo losing to the lesser-known Puerto Rican knockout artist and potentially wasting the substantial investment they have put into Lopez's career.
With the addition of Matias (20-1, 20 KOs), a fearsome puncher, Hearn now boasts an impressive lineup of fighters in the 140-lb division. Alongside Matias, his stable includes Richardson Hitchins, Liam Paro, Jack Catterall, and Regis Prograis. This strengthens Hearn's position within the division and provides him with leverage to entice WBC 140-lb champion Devin Haney to a title unification matchup, provided Haney successfully overcomes Ryan Garcia on April 20th.
Many boxing fans believe that Haney and his father, Bill, would prefer to avoid facing Matias due to his power and relentless pursuit of opponents. Matias is a fighter who brings excitement and intensity to the ring, making him a genuine force to be reckoned with, unlike some Mayweather-style boxers who can sometimes be criticized for their defensive strategy.
Matias's last fight demonstrated his exceptional skills as he walked down and stopped the previously unbeaten Shohjahon Ergashev (23-1, 20 KOs) in the sixth round, capturing the vacant IBF light welterweight title. It was an impressive display that showcased Matias's ability to dismantle opponents with his relentless pressure.
Matias's first fight under his new Matchroom Boxing contract will see him defend his IBF title against the undefeated Liam Paro (24-0, 15 KOs) in Puerto Rico, slated for June or July. Paro, a southpaw, has shown impressive form in his recent bouts, securing victories against Montana Love and Brock Jarvis. It will be interesting to see how Paro handles the relentless offensive onslaught from Matias in this highly anticipated matchup, which will be available for viewers to enjoy on DAZN.
Expressing his excitement about the deal, Matias stated, 'I am the best 140-pounder on the planet,' highlighting his confidence in his abilities and his determination to prove himself against the top contenders in his division.
The signing of Subriel Matias by Matchroom Boxing is undoubtedly a significant development in the world of boxing. Matias brings immense power, entertainment value, and an unbeaten record to his new stable. The prospect of potential future matchups, including a unification bout with Devin Haney, leaves fans eagerly anticipating what lies ahead. With his explosive style and destructive ability, Subriel Matias is truly a force to be reckoned with in the 140-lb division.
