SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO – November 26, 2024 – IBF Junior Welterweight World Champion Liam “The Prodigy” Paro and unbeaten mandatory challenger Richardson Hitchins are ready to collide in a high-stakes world title bout on Saturday, December 7, live worldwide on DAZN (7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT) from the Roberto Clemente Coliseo in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Both fighters shared insights into their training camps and mental preparation ahead of this pivotal clash.
Paro (25-0, 15 KOs) claimed his IBF title with a thrilling unanimous decision victory over Subriel Matías earlier this year, a win that established him as a true “road warrior” in the division. “Taking out the so-called boogeyman in his backyard made it extra special,” said Paro. “It wasn’t just about winning—it was about showing the world what we already knew. I’ll fight anyone, anywhere, the same way I did against the most avoided guy in the division [Matias].”
Fresh off his career-defining win in Puerto Rico, 140-pound champion Paro shared his excitement about defending his title in front of the passionate local fans. “Puerto Rico is a beautiful place with beautiful people, and I’m honored to defend my title there,” said Paro. “It’s special to return to the island that gave me the opportunity to become a champion. I’m ready to win over even more fans with this performance.”
Despite achieving a lifelong dream, Paro insists his mindset hasn’t changed. “I’ve always said I wanted the target on my back. Knowing that someone wants to take what I’ve worked my entire life for is even more motivating,” he explained. “I’ve stayed disciplined and focused, and my mindset remains the same—I’m always a contender. I know how hard this fight will be, but I’m ready to show the world what we already know. I’m one of the top guys in my division”
Hitchins (18-0, 7 KOs), who became the mandatory challenger earlier this year, is eager to prove he belongs at the top of the division. “This is my division. I am the man at 140, and once I get this belt, I’m bringing it back to New York,” said Hitchins. “This is my chance to show everyone what I’ve been saying all along—I’m the best 140-pound fighter in the world. Hats off to Liam Paro for taking the fight, but he’s never faced anyone like me.”
Hitchins is trained by Lenny Wilson, who has been pivotal in his development and success. Currently training in Brooklyn, Hitchins plans to move his camp to Puerto Rico this week for the final stretch of preparation. “I don’t take days off; I stay in shape year-round because this is my job,” said Hitchins. “The discipline I’ve learned from greats like Floyd Mayweather and Gervonta Davis has helped me prepare for this moment. I feel like I’m in my physical prime, and I’ve made sure my mental game is just as strong.”
Paro is training in Florida under the guidance of his longtime coach, Alfie Di Carlo, who has been instrumental in shaping his career. “We know the task ahead of us is not going to be easy, and we have the perfect gameplan,” said Paro. “I’ve said for a long time that I have the best team in the world, and we’ve continued to show that in every fight. This one will be no different.”
When reflecting on their opponent, both fighters made their intentions clear. “Paro beat the so-called boogeyman of the division, but I’m not Matías,” said Hitchins. “He’s never been in with a fighter like me before. I have the skills, the mindset, and the ability to take him apart and show why I’m at the top of the division. Whether it’s through boxing or fighting, I’ll find a way to win.”
Paro remains equally confident: “I don’t look past anyone,” he said. “I’m focused on getting the win and moving forward as champion. My goal is clear: to retain my title and prove why I’m the best in the division.”
Both fighters understand the stakes and welcome the opportunity to test themselves in a division stacked with talent. “I wouldn’t consider this a shocking moment,” said Hitchins. “Ever since I was a kid, I believed I was an upper-echelon fighter. This fight is the moment I’ve been working toward my entire life.”
“God willing, December 7 will be another defining night in my career,” added Paro. “I’m ready to put on a dominating performance and show again why I’m the top guy at 140.”
Tickets for the event promoted Matchroom Boxing and Universal Productions, are currently on sale and can be found HERE.
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ABOUT PARO VS. HITCHINS:
Liam Paro defends his IBF World Super-Lightweight title against Richardson Hitchins on December 7 at the Roberto Clemente Coliseo in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The night will feature a stacked undercard showcasing Puerto Rican talent, including Henry Lebron vs. Christopher Diaz and Yankiel Rivera in action. Live worldwide on DAZN.
Media Accreditation: Media can apply for accreditation via this link – accreditation closes at 5pm ET on Wednesday November 27.
