Matias: “Haney Is Like A Chicken; Teofimo Has Mental Problems”

Subriel Matias Claims He Has What Haney & Teofimo Lopez Don’t

Junior welterweight is emerging as a high-profile division in boxing. As a result, there’s a running debate as to who is the best at 140 pounds. Reigning IBF champion Subriel “El Orgullo de Maternillo” Matias (20-1, 20 KOs) believes he towers above everyone and destroys anyone who claims otherwise. That includes WBC champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (31-1, 15 KOs), WBO belt-holder Teofimo “The Takeover” Lopez (20-1, 13 KOs), and former champion Regis Prograis (29-2, 24 KOs).

Matias is days away from a June 15 title defense against Australian Liam Paro. Fighting in his home country of Puerto Rico, the defending champion wants to satisfy his countryman with a dominant victory.

NOT LIKE THE REST

During an exclusive interview with Matchroom Boxing, Matias explained that he’s a different breed from his contemporaries. He feels that his mental makeup separates him from the rest.

“I have something that 99.9 percent of them do not have. It’s the cold mentality. I feel that I am one of those few boxers that have the full package. The pressure forces me to do more, and that is what the fans are looking for.”

READY TO PROVE HIS POINT

The Puerto Rican captured the IBF strap with a fifth-round stoppage victory over Jeremias Ponce in February 2023. Haney and Lopez usually get most of the attention and coverage at junior welterweight. Regis Prograis has been a mainstay in the division for several years. They all have the skill and boxing IQ to outclass Matias.

But, with all of his victories coming by way of stoppage, the IBF champion is arguably the hardest puncher in the division. With his aggressive style and punch power in both hands, the 32-year-old can end a fight with one shot. Matias is confident that will make Haney, Lopez, and Prograis wilt.

“Teofimo, he’s smart, he’s going to quit . . . Haney is like a chicken; chicken Haney . . .Teofimo has mental problems.”

“I have a message for Regis Prograis . . . I will give you the opportunity. But there’s one condition. You’re going to the hospital.”

First, Matias must overcome Paro on June 15. But if he does, there’s no doubt he will call out all the big names at 140. Bold boasts are one thing. The only thing Matias is waiting for is the opportunity to get the chance to back up his big talk and show the world that he’s the true king at junior welterweight.

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