Liam Paro Ignores The Haney And Garcia ‘Circus’ To Focus On Unification Bouts

IBF super-lightweight champion Liam Paro has admitted Devin Haney was his main “target” but the chaos engulfing the division has turned his focus to his fellow title holders.

Paro (25-0-0 15 KO) delivered the performance of his career to defeat Subriel Matias on points in June to destroy the Puerto Rican’s homecoming and claim his world title. It moved the Australian to the top of a stacked division boasting some of the most high-profile champions in boxing.

However, in recent weeks and months, the picture in the super-lightweight division has changed. Ryan Garcia’s career is in serious jeopardy after failing multiple drug tests before his stunning victory over WBC champion Devin Haney.

After getting his first career defeat overturned to a no-contest, Haney has since vacated his title after refusing to fight mandatory challenger Sandor Martin – a result of underwhelming purse bids.

Whether he moves up to welterweight or takes time away – both of which Haney has suggested – it has left the 140lbs division without arguably its two biggest stars.

Paro Focused Only On ‘The Other Belt Holders’

For Paro, it has forced him to recalibrate his priorities. Having had Haney in his sights, all the Australian wants to do now is fight his fellow champions and keep himself removed from the controversy within the division.

“It’s a schemozzle at the moment. Haney was my target. He was the guy there, I believe, with the belt; now it’s [Alberto] Puello, so it’s anyone now,” Paro said.

“My vision’s just on the other belt holders now. Them guys [Haney and Garcia] are out of the way. I’m not gonna stick around waiting for them. It could happen in a year or two’s time, but I’m just gonna stay busy, stay fighting, and defend this belt as many times as I can.”

Over in the WBO, Teofimo Lopez returned to the ring to successfully defend his title against Steve Claggett this month, but it was another performance lacking in fireworks. Paro was one of many observers who was left unimpressed.

“Claggett’s had a fair few losses now, and as a random opponent, I believe it was just an easier defense,” he said. “[Lopez] got the job done; hopefully we can line up a fight in the future. I thought he’d get him out of there.”

‘I’ve Got No Time For Cheaters – It’s Disgusting’

As for Garcia’s one-year suspension for doping offenses, Paro did not hold back with his opinion.

“There’s no room for cheaters in this sport. It’s already hard enough. I’ve got no time for it at all. If you can’t do it without cheating, don’t do it at all,” Paro said. “You’re risking your life in there, and there’s guys cheating like that. We’re not playing tennis, you know what I mean? People can get killed. It’s disgusting. I’ve got no time for it – for cheats.

“[Haney’s] got his record back to being undefeated. It’s a bit of a circus at the moment, but it is what it is. We’re just gonna stay in our lane; continue doing what we’re doing.”

After his points win over Matias, Paro’s promoter Eddie Hearn said the goal now is to organize a homecoming fight to Australia. It will give Paro the opportunity many of Australia’s champions have had, with the likes of George Kambosos Jr, Tim Tszyu, and Jai Opetaia all putting on title fights for their home fans in recent years.

“I want to bring the big fights to Australia,” Paro said. “I’m a proud Aussie. We deserve it – we’re diehard fighting fans. I want to bring the big fights there. Opponent-wise, not sure yet. We’ve got to talk about that, and I’m sure my team will come to the best deal and the best way.”