IBF light welterweight champion Sabriel Mathias has called WBC champion Devin Haney a “coward.” Mathias hasn't said why he considers Haney a coward, but it could be that he's upset that Haney has shown no interest in fighting him in a unification bout.
Haney has fought just once since winning the WBC title against Regis Prograis last year, losing in a terrible performance to Ryan Garcia last April.
Mathias' power will be a big problem for Haney, who was lucky to escape without a knockout after being knocked down three times by Garcia in the bout.
Some believe Haney is just after the money at this point and has no interest in serious fights against dangerous opponents unless big money is involved.
Matthias' upcoming title defence
Matias (20-1, 20 KOs) will defend his IBF 140-pound title against the unbeaten Liam Paro (24-0, 15 KOs) this Saturday, June 15. The 12-round bout will be broadcast live on DAZN and will take place at the Coliseo Juan Aubin Cruz Abreu in Manati, Matias' home country of Puerto Rico.
If the Matchroom Boxing-promoted Mathias beats Paro he would like to fight one of the other light welterweight champions in a unification bout. That may not be possible considering how dangerous Mathias is, but looking weak against Paro could improve his chances.
“I have something that 99% of people don't have, and that's a cold personality. I think I'm one of the few boxers who has it all,” Subriel Matias told DAZN Boxing.
“The pressure makes me try harder. That's what the fans want. After Haney and Teofimo, I think it's going to be Lawrie. He's smart. He'll quit. Haney's a chicken.”
It's unlikely that WBO light welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez or Haney would agree to fight Mathias because the risks are too high and the prize money isn't that great, so they'd likely play it safe and go with someone like Steve Clagett or Sandor Martin.
“Rory, I'm tired. Gervonta, this will be a much harder fight. Teofimo has some mental issues,” Mathias said. “I want to send a message to Regis Prograis: if you want to be champion again, I'm here.”
“I promise I'll take you to the hospital. If you want to be champion again I'll give you the opportunity, but on one condition: you'll go to the hospital,” Matthias said.
