Becoming a world champion seemed like a far-fetched idea for Subriel Matias. Not because he wasn’t talented enough but simply because the world titles at 140 pounds were all tied up.
Josh Taylor was the man to beat at one point. He pilfered every championship trinket in the division and didn’t appear interested in letting them go. Things, however, have changed. Taylor’s tunnel vision in a rematch against Jack Catterall forced him to let go of three of his titles. So, with an unexpected chance to achieve his goals, Matias took full advantage, beating Jeremias Ponce earlier this year to grab the IBF crown.
With a golden trinket now in his possession, Matias (19-1, 19 KOs) has put together a Hitlist of sorts. From Regis Prograis to Teofimo Lopez, Matias wants to face them all. But, in terms of which name is circled in bold ink, the Puerto Rican native unveiled exactly who that is.
“Devin Haney, I want to fight you,” Matias told BoxingScene.com. “I want this fight. Please give me the opportunity.”
Despite letting his feelings be known, Matias will have to grab a ticket and head to the back of the line. Haney (30-0, 15 KOs) hasn’t officially left his undisputed lightweight throne but all indications point to him trying his hand in the super lightweight division.
First on his agenda is a likely showdown against Prograis. The WBC champ is a bit apoplectic as he believes team Haney is dragging their feet in negotiations. Eventually, Matias is expecting them to get things settled and face off in the ring.
The 24-year-old has spent his entire career at 135 pounds. Still, even with Prograis (29-1, 24 KOs) having the sort of power that can knock down a building, Matias believes that Haney’s skills will ultimately pay the bills.
“I like Devin Haney in this fight.”