Liam Paro has scoffed at Richardson Hitchins’ fiery approach to their intriguing clash for the IBF world super lightweight title this Saturday.
The 28-year-old comes off a stunning victory over Subriel Matias, comprehensively outpointing the monstrous puncher in a monumental upset on away soil.
Matias was such a heavy favorite, in fact, that Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn had planned for his next title defense to take place in Puerto Rico.
But instead, Paro will be the one returning to the decorated boxing nation, with the Australian putting his newly-acquired trinket on the line against unbeaten contender Hitchins.
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Liam Paro dismisses Richardson Hitchins’ trash talk
Since beating Matias, Paro has maintained his ambition to become one of Australia’s greatest ever fighters, following in the footsteps of legendary boxer Kostya Tszyu.
The IBF titlist, after all, is widely regarded as one of the most technical operators in his division, always utilizing his elite footwork and versatile repertoire of shots.
But equally, the skilful southpaw insists that, when forced into an exchange at close quarters, he can also duke it out in the heat of battle.
Hitchins, meanwhile, has proven to be an awkward customer against the likes of Gustavo Lemos and former world title challenger Jose Zepeda.
At the same time, though, the 27-year-old seemingly has an enormous amount of confidence in his toughness, claiming to have done a number on Devin Haney in sparring.
But despite the American’s trash talk throughout fight week, Paro remains convinced that his opponent will get found out soon enough.
“Talk is cheap, and I just think it’s hiding all his insecurities,” Paro told IFL TV. “He’s a nervous wreck – that’s all I see from him.
“We’re a few days away from seeing if he is what he talks about, so it’s all added pressure to himself.
“But look, each to their own. As long as it gets him through those ropes, and standing across me in the ring on Saturday night, I couldn’t give a s*** really.”
Liam Paro could face George Kambosos Jr or Jack Catterall
If he overcomes what promises to be a stern test against Hitchins, Paro will have a plethora of opponents to consider for his next title defense.
The technician has already expressed his desire to stage a homecoming for his next outing, and so former undisputed champion George Kambosos Jr could make for the ideal dance partner.
Kambosos, of course, has recently signed with Matchroom too, making it easier for Hearn to deliver the potential all-Australian dustup.
That said, Jack Catterall is still waiting in the wings for his opportunity after beating Regis Prograis, and could therefore shoehorn himself into the conversation for a title shot instead.