Subriel Matías, with a record of 22 wins, all by knockout, and 2 losses, made waves on Saturday evening when he called out Richardson Hitchins, the IBF light welterweight champion. This came on the heels of Matías’ decisive victory over Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela, who was stopped in the eighth round of their IBF-sanctioned 140-pound title eliminator in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
### Delivering a Bold Challenge
What stands out is that Hitchins, who boasts an unbeaten record of 19 wins, 7 by knockout, has remained completely silent following Matías’ challenge. This lack of response from the Brooklyn-based boxer suggests he might not be eager to face Matías, who has been a fearsome contender in the 140-pound category. Despite Matías experiencing a setback last year against Liam Paro, now also defeated by Hitchins, he remains a formidable opponent but perhaps not enough of a marquee match to attract Hitchins. Meanwhile, in a Saturday interview, Richardson expressed a desire to take on George Kambosos Jr. next. For Hitchins, Kambosos seems an easier challenge, considering Kambosos has recently lost three out of his last four bouts and lacks significant punch power.
During their bout, Matías effectively dismantled Valenzuela, delivering methodical and thunderous blows round after round, visibly damaging Valenzuela’s face. By the time the seventh round arrived, the ringside doctor scrutinized Valenzuela thoroughly before giving him the go-ahead to continue, though his face was severely battered.
### The Grit of Valenzuela
It was unexpected that the fight wasn’t halted earlier, particularly since Valenzuela’s right eye was nearly swollen shut due to Matías’ relentless onslaught. Valenzuela displayed commendable grit and resilience to hang in there during the seventh round, with Matías seemingly easing off the intensity. There was a moment where it seemed like Matías was holding back, perhaps out of concern for Valenzuela’s compromised vision. However, Matías went full throttle in the eighth round, delivering several hard-hitting punches reminiscent of George Foreman, which sent Valenzuela to one knee. Referee Roberto Ramirez Jr. stepped in to end the contest at 2:55 of the eighth round.
This series of events underscores Matías’ standing as a fighter who remains a threat in the division, inviting challenges but also, seemingly, some silence from potential contenders.
