Subriel Matias and Elvis Rodriguez could reportedly fight for the No. 1 spot in the IBF light heavyweight rankings.
The potential clash has not been confirmed, and could hinge on whether WBO 140lb champion Teofimo Lopez decides to make a defense against dangerous former IBF champion Matias (21-2, 21 KOs). With Teo whining to X 24/7 about Top Rank, he might decide he doesn’t want Matias.
Clash for #1?
‘The Dominican Kid’ Rodriguez (17-1-1, 13 is ranked #7 with the IBF at 140 and has won his last six fights since losing to Kenneth Sims Jr via eight round majority decision on May 22, 2021 .).
Matias, 32, lost his IBF title to Liam Parr last year on June 15 after a rough fight in a fight that was loosely refereed. Paro got away with a lot of rough tactics that should have resulted in a warning and points deduction in that fight.
Richardson Hitchins now holds the IBF light heavyweight title after defeating Para by split decision over 12 rounds last month on June 7. So if the Matias-Rodriguez fight does happen, the winner would face Hitchins for the IBF title.
“BREAKING NEWS: As Teofimo Lopez plays negotiator on social media and even questions how much it would cost to buy out his contract, the rumors don’t stop! 🥊 There is talk of a possible fight between Subriel Matias and Elvis Rodriguez for the #1 spot in the IBF,” said Cesar Seda on X.
