Australian boxer Liam Paro succumbs to Richardson Hitchins in world title bout
Australian boxer Liam Paro has lost his IBF super lightweight world title to undefeated American Richardson Hitchins via a split-decision defeat.
The Queenslander (25-1, 15 KOs) was handed the first loss of his professional career by Hitchins (19-0) in the main event at Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Sunday afternoon AEDT.
Two judges scored the fight 116-112 with Richardson the winner.
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However the other third judge, Nelson Vazquez, quickly drew criticism on social media for scoring the bout in favour of Paro 111-117.
"I was just hoping that they didn't rob me," Hitchins told streaming platform DAZN.
"Once I figured out the timing on the right hand, I started taking over. I knew I was going to get him. Tonight, I showed him I'm on a different level."
Paro had the better start of the pair but Hitchins worked his way into the fight after he was encouraged by his corner to up the ante ahead of the fourth round.
Hitchins soon responded, keeping Paro at arm's length with sharp jabs and straight right hands. In the second half of the 12-round contest, the former Olympian flipped the fight in his favour.
Richardson Hitchins hits back in his bout against Liam Paro. @MatchroomBoxing via A
Speaking post-fight Paro — who was returning to Puerto Rico after he upset Subriel Matias in his own backyard to win the title in June — acknowledged Hitchins' skilled and composed performance.
"He's a hell of a fighter, hell of a champion," he said.
"No excuses, we had a good camp, he was the better man tonight.
"We let him get set in his way and that was it. I'll be back. It's not a loss, it's a lesson.
The loss completes Paro's time on the road with a homecoming fight set for next year.
