Another outrageous event happened yesterday in Puerto Rico featuring Subriel Matias defending his IBF belt in a bout against Liam Paro.
As a result, Liam Paro defied a hostile Puerto Rican crowd and overcame a questionable point deduction to secure a unanimous decision victory over Subriel Matias, claiming this IBF title at 140 lbs. Paro utilized movement and clinching to neutralize Matias’s power punches. Despite a point deduction in the 7th round for hitting the back of Matias’s head, Paro maintained control, frustrating Matias throughout the fight. The judges scored the bout 115-112, 115-112, and 116-111 in favor of Paro.
Watch the official fight highlights: Watch
In the co-main event, Yankiel Rivera delivered a strong performance against Victor Sandoval. Rivera dominated most of the fight, despite a questionable knockdown in Round 2. Sandoval struggled to land significant punches until the latter rounds. Rivera’s defensive improvements were evident, and he secured a unanimous decision with scores of 98-91, 98-91, and 97-92, demonstrating his readiness for a step up in competition.
Alfredo Santiago made a triumphant return to the ring, outclassing Angel Fierro in his first significant bout in five years. Santiago showcased his precision and versatility, frustrating Fierro with constant movement and effective switching to southpaw. Despite a spirited effort from Fierro in the 9th round, Santiago's superior technique earned him a unanimous decision victory with scores of 99-91, 98-92, and 98-92.
Stephanie Pineiro also impressed, going the distance for the first time in her career against Diana Tapia. Pineiro dominated the early rounds with her speed and activity but began to tire in the later stages. However, she maintained control and nearly achieved a stoppage in the final round. The judges scored the fight 100-90, 100-90, and 99-91, highlighting Pineiro’s dominance despite some fatigue.
William Ortiz secured a solid victory over Carlos Mitzael, overcoming a severe eyebrow cut in the 5th round. Ortiz knocked down Mitzael in the 2nd and 5th rounds, displaying his power and resilience. Despite the cut, Ortiz coasted to a unanimous decision win with scores of 60-52, 60-52, and 59-53, demonstrating his potential as a future contender.
Image Credit: Matchroom