Former Champion Matías Takes on Valenzuela in Title Eliminator
This Saturday, March 1st, the Coliseo Tomas Dones in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, will host a thrilling 12-round IBF light welterweight title eliminator bout between Subriel Matías and Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela. The match, scheduled to air live on DAZN at 7:00 p.m. ET, promises to be a spectacle of skill and grit. Matías, a former IBF light welterweight champion with a record of 21-2 and 2 KOs, is determined to reclaim his title and bring the belt back to his hometown. His opponent, Valenzuela, currently ranked #4 by the IBF with a 30-3, 17 KOs record, is no stranger to high-stakes fights and brings a formidable presence to the ring. Both fighters are at the top of their game, making this a must-watch event for boxing enthusiasts.
The Road to Hitchins: A High-Stakes Eliminator
The victor of this title eliminator will become the mandatory challenger for the IBF 140-lb title currently held by Richardson Hitchins. However, the path to a title shot is not straightforward. Hitchins’ promoter, Eddie Hearn, has expressed interest in matching him against Teofimo Lopez or George Kambosos Jr., adding a layer of uncertainty to the challenger’s fate. For Matías, 32, this fight is a significant step in his journey to regain the title he lost to Liam Paro last June 15th. That bout was a tough lesson for Matías, who found himself outmaneuvered by Paro’s roughhouse tactics, including shoving, rabbit punching, and wrestling. Matías’ adherence to the rules and reliance on the referee to intervene ultimately cost him the title. He’s since recognized the need to be more assertive and tactical in the ring, a realization that could be crucial in his upcoming fight against Valenzuela.
Matías’ Resilience and Determination
Matías’ career has been marked by resilience and a commitment to redemption. After his loss to Paro, he made no excuses and doubled down on his promise to himself to regain the title. This fight is more than just a personal goal; it’s a symbol of his journey and the challenges he has overcome. Matías, who grew up in a tough environment, often reflects on the fact that his path to boxing was not predestined. He could have easily ended up in much darker circumstances, but he seized the opportunity to turn his life around. "People have seen me fall and get up again," Matías said. "If you have followed my life, you would know that being a fighter was not in the stars for me. I thought I would either be dead or in jail for a long time. I had the opportunity to turn my wrongs into rights." Such a perspective not only adds depth to his character but also fuels his determination to succeed in the ring.
Valenzuela’s Record and Reputation
Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela brings a strong record and a reputation for being a hard-hitting, strategic fighter to this eliminator bout. With 30 wins, 17 of them by knockout, and only 3 losses, Valenzuela has proven his mettle in the boxing world. At 30-3, he is a formidable opponent who will not go down easily. While he is ranked lower than Matías, his experience and punching power make him a serious threat. Valenzuela’s ability to adapt and stay composed under pressure has been key to his success. This fight against Matías will be a test of his skills and resolve, and the winner will have to display not just physical prowess but also mental fortitude.
The Undercard: A Night of Thrilling Matches
The undercard of the event is packed with exciting bouts that promise to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. In the co-feature, light welterweight Alfredo Santiago (16-2, 7 KOs) will face former WBA super featherweight champion Javier Fortuna (39-5-1, 28 KOs) in a 10-round bout. Fortuna, 35, has had a rollercoaster career since losing his WBA belt in 2016. He’s faced some of the best in the sport, including Robert Easter Jr., Joseph Diaz, Ryan Garcia, and Robbie Davies Jr., and though he’s suffered losses, his experience and fighting spirit remain intact. Santiago, a rising star with a solid amateur background, will need to bring his A-game to overcome Fortuna’s veteran savvy.
Other notable undercard fights include Nestor Bravo vs. Xolisani Ndongeni and Pryce Taylor vs. Trevor Katara. These bouts are expected to showcase the depth and talent in the light welterweight division, providing fans with a full night of electrifying action. Each fighter on the undercard is fighting for more than just a win; they are battling to prove their worth and earn a spot in the boxing world’s limelight.
A Night of National Pride and Latino Flavor
The event in Fajardo is more than just a boxing match; it’s a celebration of Puerto Rican boxing culture. The Coliseo Tomas Dones has a rich history of hosting significant bouts, and this one is no exception. Matías, representing Puerto Rico, is keenly aware of the cultural significance of this fight. "When you fight in Puerto Rico, you gotta walk out with some sabor latino," he emphasized, highlighting the importance of bringing his best to honor his roots. The crowd, known for their passionate support, will undoubtedly add to the atmosphere, making the event a memorable one. Whether it’s the anthems, the chants, or the fierce competition, the night is sure to be infused with the vibrant spirit of Puerto Rican boxing.
Looking Ahead: Matías’ Vision for the Future
For Subriel Matías, this fight is a stepping stone to a bigger goal. He is focused on the immediate task of defeating Valenzuela, but his eyes are set on the ultimate prize—the IBF light welterweight title. Matías understands that the road ahead might be challenging, especially with Eddie Hearn’s interest in other matchups for Hitchins. However, he remains undeterred and is committed to proving his worth. "I respect my opponent, but I understand the great rivalry between Puerto Rico and Mexico," Matías stated. "This fight is about more than just me; it’s about my people and the legacy of Puerto Rican boxing." As the lights dim and the crowd roars, one thing is clear: this title eliminator is a battle that will be remembered for years to come.
