Queenslander Liam Paro has produced one of the great performances in Australian boxing history, winning the IBF junior welterweight title with a stunning unanimous points win over Subriel Matias in Manati, Puerto Rico.
The 28-year-old Australian won 115-112 on two cards and 116-111 on the third.
“I’m a true warrior. I’ve got the heart of a lion. I showed that,” Paro said on DAZN.
His persistent jab, uppercuts and combination punches carried the day against Matias, who was rarely able to show his renowned pressure.
Paro had a point taken off in the seventh round for hitting to the back of the head.
It was a contentious ruling, described by the fight commentators as “disgraceful”, “disgusting” and “ridiculous”.
Liam Paro. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Fortunately for the Australian, it didn’t affect the fight.
He banked rounds early against the notoriously slow-starting Matias.
While the Puerto Rican boxer landed some powerful flurries, especially in the middle rounds, Paro recovered from the point deduction and clearly won the last few rounds.
© AAP