A rivalry has erupted between two prominent Australian boxers, George Kambosos and Liam Paro, amid accusations of jealousy and lack of national pride. Kambosos labelled Paro as “un-Australian” after Paro suggested he expects Kambosos to be knocked out in his forthcoming IBF super lightweight match against Richardson Hitchins in New York on June 15.
Kambosos, preparing to face Hitchins, is seen as an outsider by betting agencies. In a prior bout, Paro lost to Hitchins during his first title defence in Puerto Rico, a defeat that came after he had claimed the title from Subriel Matias earlier that year. Paro’s supporters feel he was denied a fair chance in that match and were critical of his subsequent contract termination with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom.
Currently, Paro has inked a deal with No Limit and is set to debut against American Jonathan Navarro in Cairns on June 25. During the press conference to announce this fight, Paro expressed doubt about Kambosos’ abilities, stating he planned to bet on Kambosos not completing the match.
This comment quickly made its way onto social media, prompting Kambosos to respond, asserting that Paro’s words revealed his true character. He remarked on Paro’s perceived lack of support for fellow Australians and remarked on the shift in their relationship, questioning the significance of Paro’s recent decisions and alliances.
Paro, currently ranked fourth by the IBF, fifth by the WBO, and seventh by the WBC, previously showed interest in a potential match with Kambosos after winning his title. However, he has since reconsidered, critiquing Kambosos’ recent performances, noting that Kambosos has only emerged victorious in two of his last five fights and had lacklustre displays in his most recent bouts.
Paro further stated that Kambosos was convincingly defeated in his losses and failed to impress in his latest outing against Australian competitor Jake Wyllie. The developing feud between these two fighters highlights not only personal tensions but a broader narrative of competitiveness and pride within Australian boxing.