Josh Taylor Clearing Path for Catterall Rematch; Matias v Ponce Ordered by IBF
From undisputed champion to now a one-belt champion, Josh “The Tartan Tornado” Taylor (19-0, 13KOs) has decided to vacate yet another one of his titles as he continues to head towards a rematch with Jack Catterall (26-1, 13KOs).
Back in February, the two engaged in a fight that most clearly felt should’ve gone to the challenger, Catterall. However, he would unfortunately be on the wrong side of a split decision. With that result, there was a call from fans and Catterall for an immediate rematch. Now, with the rematch likely happening later this year, both men get a chance to set the record straight.
Taylor told Sky Sports his reasoning for vacating the title.
“Yes, I vacated and I will continue to do whatever it takes to be in position to make sure the rematch with Jack Catterall happens.”
With that decision to drop the IBF strap, that leaves Subriel Matias and Jeremias Ponce to fight for the title.
SUBRIEL MATIAS V JEREMIAS PONCE
Subriel “El Orgullo de Maternillo” Matias (18-1, 18KOs) is a hard-hitting Puerto Rican contender with a fan-friendly style. He sits ranked #8 (WBO) and (WBC) and #2 (IBF). Matias is currently 3-1 in his last four fights, getting revenge on Petros Ananyan, the man who gave him his first defeat. He avenged that loss by stopping him in the ninth round.
In the case of Argentine fighter Jeremias Ponce (30-0, 20KOs), he’s an unknown commodity. He is ranked #11 (WBO), #1 (IBF), and #9 (WBC). The only name-worthy guy he’s faced is Lewis Ruston, whom he stopped in ten rounds in 2021 to become the IBF mandatory. Needless to say, this is a huge opportunity for both men, as a win will see their dreams of becoming world champions fulfilled. While nothing is official and the fight is only being ordered by the IBF, there’s the expectation that a deal will get done for these two to meet sometime later this year.
We here at 3kings Boxing will continue to monitor the story and provide updates as they become available.
By: Jerrell Fletcher
