The boxing world is buzzing with rumours of a potential fight between Australia’s Liam Paro and Britain’s Jack Catterall. While no official confirmation has been made, the speculation alone is enough to intrigue boxing purists. Both fighters have recently showcased their skills in high-stakes bouts, and if this matchup materialises, it promises to be a tactical, skill-based showdown. Here’s everything we know so far, including each fighter’s most recent performance, what they’d bring to the ring, and who might have the edge.
Paro vs Catterall: A Look at the Fighters’ Recent Form
Both Paro and Catterall are technically skilled southpaws with a lot to prove. Here’s a breakdown of each fighter’s last performance and what it suggests for this potential clash.
Jack Catterall’s Recent Victory over Regis Prograis
Jack Catterall recently took on former world champion Regis Prograis on October 26, 2024, at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena. In a high-stakes contest, Catterall showed resilience by overcoming a fifth-round knockdown to ultimately win by unanimous decision. With scores of 117-108 and 116-109 twice in his favour, Catterall’s victory over Prograis was a testament to his grit, patience, and tactical skill. This win also earned him the WBO International super lightweight title, moving him a step closer to another world title shot.
Catterall’s performance against Prograis highlighted his ability to adapt under pressure, showcasing his defensive skills and ring IQ. His slick movement and disciplined approach make him a challenging opponent for anyone in the division, and if Paro vs Catterall happens, he’ll likely rely on these same strengths to gain the upper hand.
Liam Paro’s Title Win Against Subriel Matias
Liam Paro stepped into the spotlight earlier this year when he travelled to Manatí, Puerto Rico, on June 15, 2024, to challenge Subriel Matias for the IBF super lightweight title. Despite facing a hostile crowd and a tough opponent, Paro delivered an impressive performance, outpointing Matias to claim the championship. With scores of 115-112 (twice) and 116-111 in his favour, Paro’s victory proved his skill, discipline, and resilience.
Paro’s win over Matias was a career-defining moment, and it showed he’s capable of staying calm and focused in high-pressure environments. His sharp jab, effective counter-punching, and tactical patience have made him a formidable presence in the super-lightweight division. Paro has expressed his willingness to fight on the road again, saying he’s eager to prove himself on the global stage. A potential bout with Catterall would give him just that opportunity.
Paro vs Catterall: What the Matchup Could Look Like
If Paro vs Catterall goes ahead, boxing purists can expect a contest full of skill, strategy, and discipline. Since both fighters are southpaws, they’ll face the added challenge of adapting to each other’s stance—a situation that often calls for even more patience and careful planning. This matchup isn’t likely to be an all-out brawl but rather a chess match in the ring.
Both fighters will likely focus on controlling distance, avoiding risky exchanges, and relying on their ring IQ to outmanoeuvre each other. Catterall’s experience against top-tier opponents, especially with his recent win over Prograis, gives him a slight edge in navigating high-pressure scenarios. However, Paro’s undefeated record and recent title win indicate a fighter on the rise, one who is eager to prove he belongs at the elite level.
Keys to Victory: What Each Fighter Needs to Do
For Catterall
Jack Catterall’s best path to victory lies in controlling the pace of the fight. He’ll need to rely on his superior footwork and ring awareness to stay one step ahead of Paro, keeping him from finding his rhythm. Catterall’s recent experience with top competition, combined with his calculated approach, could allow him to outscore Paro with well-placed shots and defensive mastery.
Avoiding prolonged exchanges where Paro might excel will be crucial for Catterall. By sticking to a game plan that prioritises movement, timing, and control, he can accumulate points and secure a decision win without getting drawn into Paro’s game.
For Paro
Liam Paro needs to seize this opportunity to make a statement. To do that, he’ll have to apply intelligent pressure, using his jab to keep Catterall on the back foot and disrupt his flow. Paro’s counter-punching skills will be essential in finding openings and chipping away at Catterall’s defence.
If Paro can close the distance and control the ring, he could force Catterall into situations where his own patience and discipline pay off. Staying focused and avoiding over-committing will be crucial, but Paro’s willingness to travel and his hunger to prove himself could be the X-factor.
A Fight for the Boxing Purists
It’s clear that Paro vs Catterall won’t have the mainstream appeal of a heavyweight slugfest, nor is it likely to draw in casual fans looking for a quick knockout. Instead, it’s a fight for boxing purists who appreciate the sport’s more nuanced aspects. This matchup promises a showcase of disciplined boxing, technical skill, and intelligent strategy—a battle where every feint and footwork adjustment will count.
For boxing enthusiasts who relish the subtleties of the sport, Paro vs Catterall is an exciting prospect. Both fighters bring skill, patience, and ring IQ to the table, which should make for a captivating, strategic contest.
Prediction: Who Has the Edge?
If this fight becomes a reality, the slight edge goes to Catterall, thanks to his experience against elite competition and his recent confidence-boosting win over Prograis. His calmness under pressure and his calculated style could help him outpoint Paro in a close decision.
However, Paro’s recent success against Matias and his undefeated record make him a dangerous opponent. His adaptability and hunger to prove himself could push him to surprise Catterall, especially if he can disrupt his opponent’s rhythm and stay on the offensive.
Final Thoughts on Paro vs Catterall
While Paro vs Catterall remains a rumour for now, it’s already stirring excitement among fans who crave a tactical, skill-based battle. Both fighters have showcased their abilities against tough competition, and a matchup between them would be a true test of boxing IQ and technique. Whether Catterall’s experience or Paro’s undefeated drive wins out, one thing’s certain: this potential bout would be a masterclass in boxing for those who appreciate the sweet science.
Here’s hoping that the rumours come true, and we get to see Paro vs Catterall deliver the kind of strategic showdown boxing purists dream of.