Subriel Matias Takes On Gabriel Valenzuela in High-Stakes Showdown
On March 1st, the Coliseo Tomás Dones Hernández in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, will host a pivotal 12-round IBF light welterweight title eliminator between #3 ranked Subriel Matias (21-2, 21 KOs) and #4 ranked Gabriel Valenzuela (30-3, 17 KOs). This highly anticipated bout will determine the next mandatory challenger for the IBF 140-lb title currently held by Richardson Hitchins. The fight, which will begin at 7pm ET / 12am GMT (Sunday), will be broadcast live on DAZN, with the main event ringwalks scheduled for 9pm ET / 2am GMT (Sunday).
Gabriel Valenzuela: A Battle-Tested Fighter
Gabriel Valenzuela, a 30-year-old from Mexico, has had a decade-long professional career, most of which he has spent in his home country. Valenzuela’s recent travels have taken him to Las Vegas, where he suffered a 12-round unanimous decision loss to Montana Love on May 7th, 2022. Despite this setback, Valenzuela has shown resilience, securing victories over Steve Spark and Yves Ulysse Jr. However, his loss to Love highlighted his limitations as a fighter. If Valenzuela hasn’t made significant improvements since that defeat, he may struggle to keep pace with the formidable Matias.
Subriel Matias: A Fighter on a Mission
Subriel Matias, a former IBF champion, lost his title to Liam Paro by unanimous decision in a controversial fight a year ago. The bout was marred by Paro’s roughhouse tactics, including shoving and rabbit punching, which went largely unpunished by the referee. Matias, who could have won the fight if the referee had been more proactive, was forced to adapt to a difficult style match-up. Matias, now fueled by the desire to reclaim his title, sees this fight as an opportunity to prove himself once again. "Fighting in my hometown, in front of my people, is an honor and an extra motivation," said Matias. "I know Valenzuela will come prepared, but I’m ready to prove why I deserve another shot at the title."
A Battle of Pride and Representation
Gabriel Valenzuela, representing Mexico, is equally determined to make a statement. "This fight is going to be a classic," Valenzuela declared. "I’m proud to represent my country as I fight to bring another world title back home to Mexico." The bout is more than just a boxing match; it’s a battle of pride and representation for both fighters. Matias, who was recently in negotiations with WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez, sees Valenzuela as a stepping stone to regaining his world title status. While the fight with Lopez ultimately fell through due to financial and logistical issues, Matias remains focused on his path forward.
Fight Details and Broadcast Information
The fight card, scheduled to begin at 7pm ET / 12am GMT (Sunday), will feature several other bouts. In addition to the main event, Alfredo Santiago will face Javier Fortuna for the WBO NABO super lightweight title, Nestor Bravo will take on Xolisani Ndongeni for the WBA intercontinental super lightweight title, and heavyweight prospects Pryce Taylor and Trevor Kotara will also be in action. The main event ringwalks are set for 9pm ET / 2am GMT (Sunday), and the entire card will be streamed live on DAZN worldwide.
Tickets and Venue Information
Tickets for the event are now available for purchase at Ticketera.com. The Coliseo Tomás Dones Hernández, located in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, will be the venue for this exciting night of boxing. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with a capacity crowd eager to see Matias and Valenzuela put on a memorable performance. Whether you’re tuning in from the comfort of your home or attending the event in person, this fight promises to be a thrilling spectacle of skill, determination, and heart.
