defeated Jeremias Ponce via TKO at the end of Round 5 to become the new IBF World Super Lightweight Champion .
By round two, Matías began to close the distance, smothering Ponce’s attacks and landing short, powerful counter-punches to the head and body. Boks: Matias vs Ponce
In a high-octane battle for the vacant IBF Junior Welterweight Championship, (19-1, 19 KOs) secured a fifth-round TKO victory over the previously undefeated Jeremias Ponce (30-1, 20 KOs) . The bout, which took place on February 25, 2023, at The Armory in Minneapolis, was a punishing "phone booth" fight that lived up to its billing as a "Fight of the Year" candidate. Fight Summary Key Events Early Rounds defeated Jeremias Ponce via TKO at the end
: Showed incredible heart and high-volume aggression. Despite his first professional loss, his team was praised for their decision to prioritize his long-term health by stopping the fight when they did. The bout, which took place on February 25,
In the closing seconds of the fifth round, Matías landed a decisive combination and a body shot that dropped Ponce . While Ponce beat the count, his corner requested the fight be stopped before the sixth round began.
: Demonstrated exceptional poise and ring IQ by weathering Ponce's early storm. His signature power was the difference-maker, maintaining his 100% knockout rate in victories. Following the win, Matías immediately called out WBC champion Regis Prograis for a unification bout.