To some extent, Arnold Barboza is in the worst position possible. He may have high-level skills and an undefeated record, but the 32-year-old isn’t a big name and doesn’t bring many dollars to the table. Even with the California native holding the number one spot in the WBO sanctioning body, Teofimo Lopez has shown little to no interest in facing him.
Still, Barboza (29-0, 11 KOs) is determined to become a nuisance to almost everyone. With matchups against Lopez, Devin Haney and Rolando “Rolly” Romero seemingly far-fetched, Barboza hopes Subriel Matias gives him a chance.
On numerous occasions, Barboza has criticized the IBF belt holder. For the most part, Barboza is alone on an island. Considering his pernicious power and his propensity to knock out his opponents, Matias is not number one on anyone’s hit list. Still, Barboza does not back down from the violent champion.
“I think I’m the only one who mentions his name,” Barboza told MillCity Boxing. “I think it’s a good fight, a dangerous fight, of course.”
In 2023, Matías (20-1, 20 KOs) eliminated two admirably ranked contenders before the final bell. Although both Jeremías Ponce and Shohjahon Ergashev were highly regarded, Matías tore through them, stopping them both mid-fights.
At the moment, Matías is recovering his body after undergoing surgery on his hand. He believes he will return to the ring in the coming months, but in terms of who he will face, the Puerto Rican native is crossing his fingers that one of his fellow champions will unify with him.
Unfortunately for Matías, they are all full. López has a date with Jamaine Ortiz, Romero is in the middle of conclaves with Ryan García and Devin Haney has a mandatory challenger in Sandor Martín.
Getting another belt, at least in the short term, seems unlikely. So, with his options limited, Barboza raises his hand in hopes that Matías will choose him.
In most cases, Barboza has struck down his opposition. In the case of Matías, however, he admitted that he has nothing but the utmost respect for him.
“I think he is the best 140 champion. He is a dangerous fighter.”
