Liam Paro, the new IBF super-lightweight champion, isn’t fazed by the idea of defending his title on foreign soil. The Australian champion, who captured his first world title in Puerto Rico, is prepared for a trip to the UK if a showdown with Jack Catterall materializes.
Paro’s success on the road speaks for itself. In 2021, he fought outside Australia for the first time, defeating Yomar Alamo by split decision. He later made waves in the U.S., stopping Montana Love and eventually claiming his IBF title with a career-best performance against Subriel Matias. Now, Paro’s first title defense will take place on December 7 at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, where he’ll face mandatory challenger Richardson Hitchins.
Eyeing Future Fights and Potential Catterall Matchup
Paro’s victory against Hitchins could set up an opportunity to unify the super-lightweight division in 2025 or take on other lucrative challenges. One name in the mix is Jack Catterall, who recently defeated Regis Prograis. Paro commented on Catterall’s win, stating, “It was a boring fight for the first six rounds, but hats off to Catterall; he got the job done.”
Although Catterall doesn’t hold a title, the fight has been discussed since 2020, according to Paro, and a UK showdown could be in the cards if the financial incentive is attractive. When asked if he’d feel frustrated facing Catterall before a titleholder, Paro responded, “My mind is strictly on Hitchins. But who knows, if they offer me big money, I’ll go win some more fans in Manchester.”
A True Road Warrior
Paro, now a global fighter, embraces the idea of traveling to his opponents’ backyards. “I travel all around the world,” he says. “I don’t care where I fight. I just love to fight.”
As he prepares for his December defense, Paro’s ambitions extend far beyond Australia, with the possibility of a UK trip for a high-stakes bout against Catterall—a prospect that excites both fighters’ fanbases.
