Unbeaten super lightweights Liam Paro and Richardson Hitchins have engaged in a fiery build-up to their world title clash on December 7.
The pair will lock horns in Puerto Rico, where Paro claimed his IBF strap with a stunning unanimous decision victory over fearsome puncher Subriel Matias earlier this year.
As a sizable underdog, the Australian was compelled to put on a boxing clinic, comprehensively outboxing the formidable champion on away soil.
But now, Paro looks to showcase a different side of his game against Hitchins, hoping to retain his crown before unifying with the remaining champions at 140 lbs.
Liam Paro dares Richardson Hitchins to meet him head-on
In many ways, Paro and Hitchins share a similar approach to boxing, with both fighters ultimately being known for their slick defensive manoeuvres and polished footwork.
Paro, however, believes that the American would struggle to match his intensity in a phone booth-style matchup, questioning his determination in the heat of battle.
While Hitchens comes off a unanimous decision victory over Gustavo Lemos, many believe that the result could have easily swung against him.
Against the same opponent, meanwhile, rising star Keyshawn Davis produced a far more convincing performance, stopping Lemos in only the second round.
That said, Hitchins has indeed earned the opportunity to take on Paro after displaying his level last year with a statement performance against seasoned veteran Jose Zepeda.
But still, the 27-year-old may be forced to reach deep into his tool box in just under two weeks, with Paro now accusing him of having a one-dimensional, and largely negative, style.
“I’ve got grit, I’m a true warrior,” Paro said during his face-off with Hitchins on Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel. “I’ll face anyone anywhere, I’m not afraid to face no challenge.”
“[Hitchens is] emotional. He’s got to tell himself that he’s got that x-factor, all he does is talk. I respect you, you’re a good boxer, but you stink out stadiums.
“None of your fights prove you are what you say you are. So, December 7, meet me in the middle of the ring, don’t run, and prove, not just to me but to the world that you’ve got it.”
Will the winner of Liam Paro vs. Richardson Hitchins unify against Teofimo Lopez or Jose Valenzuela?
At super lightweight, the remaining champions are WBO titlist Teofimo Lopez and WBA king Jose Valenzuela, who comes off a dominant victory over Isaac Cruz.
Both fighters represent a lucrative option for whoever emerges victorious between Paro and Hitchins, yet Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn may try to steer the winner away from a unification.
Instead, Hearn has expressed an interest in giving Jack Catterall, who comes off a sensational victory over Regis Prograis, his second crack at a world title.