The super-lightweight division has a familiar face back at the top. Subriel Matias, often known simply as `The Punisher,` successfully reclaimed a piece of the 140-pound championship landscape last night in New York, defeating Alberto Puello by majority decision to capture the WBC title.
This wasn`t a typical night`s work for Matias, whose resume is heavily decorated with knockout victories. Instead, it was a gritty, 12-round battle of wills and contrasting styles that went the distance – a first in Matias`s professional career to result in a win. Matias, the relentless pressure fighter from Puerto Rico, constantly marched forward, seeking to close the distance and suffocate Puello with heavy shots to both head and body. Puello, the patient counter-puncher from the Dominican Republic, attempted to box and move, often operating from the ropes, looking for openings as Matias advanced.
The official scorecards told the story of a competitive fight. One judge, Frank Lombardi, saw it even at 114-114. However, Ron McNair and Tony Paolillo both favored Matias, scoring it 115-113, resulting in the majority decision win for the new champion. The narrow margin reflects just how tactical, and at times messy, the contest was. Curiously, the ringside commentary team seemed convinced that Puello had done enough to edge the decision, adding an extra layer of post-fight discussion to the outcome.
Indeed, this wasn`t always a display of textbook technique. Referee Eric Dali certainly earned his fee, frequently having to separate the fighters as clinching and grappling were common, and action sometimes continued just after the bell. Despite the consistent pressure from Matias, Puello had his moments, including a sharp uppercut late in the eleventh round that was arguably the most eye-catching single punch of the fight.
For Subriel Matias, this victory marks a significant return to champion status after a detour when he lost his previous title to Liam Paro. His record now stands at an impressive 23-2, with 22 of those wins coming by knockout – making this decision victory a notable departure from his typical finishes. For Alberto Puello, the night represented his first professional defeat, bringing his record to 24-1. Despite the loss, Puello proved his mettle and toughness in pushing Matias the full 12 rounds in a closely contested bout.
As with any close contest, talk of a rematch immediately surfaced, and given the competitive nature, it would likely be well-received by fans. However, the boxing world rarely waits long for its champions. Almost as soon as the final bell faded, Sheffield`s own Dalton Smith emerged at ringside for the traditional post-fight face-off, positioning himself as the clear next challenge for the newly crowned WBC king. It seems Matias`s reign will be immediately tested.
Tristan Blackwood