Fajardo, Puerto Rico’s Subriel Matías (22-2, 22 KOs) defeated Mexico’s Gabriel Gollaz Valenzuela (30-4-1, 17 KOs) in an IBF Junior Welterweight World Title eliminator bout via eighth round knockout in a thrilling homecoming main event.

Matías, the former IBF World Champion, ultimately out struck the No. 4-ranked IBF junior welterweight in Gollaz Valenzuela in a competitive outing.

Following a barrage of punches, Gollaz Valenzuela was forced to take a knee, earning Matías his 22nd knockout victory and keeping his 100% finish rate intact. With this momentous victory, Matías is now the mandatory challenger for reigning IBF Junior Welterweight Champion Richardson Hitchins.

Matías: “Gollaz Valenzuela proves that Mexican fighters fight for their country. He showed the heart of a warrior, but I came ready for 12 rounds. I trained two years in Mexico, and I know how they train. They are very dedicated boxers, and I have great respect for them. I learned a lot from them as well.”

“I am happy but won’t be complete until I get the world title. I will be a two-time world champion and want to avenge my loss against Liam Paro.”