Liam Paro vs. David Papot: Preview & Betting Tips

Australian southpaw Liam Paro makes another step toward a world title shot when he faces French veteran David Papot in a 12-round contest for a IBF welterweight eliminator, with the winner positioning himself for a mandatory shot at championship gold.

Paro (26-1, 16 KO’s) enters as the favourite and for good reason. The 29-year-old has carved out a reputation as one of Australia’s most talented fighters. His career highlight remains the stunning upset of Subriel Matias in Puerto Rico, where he became IBF champion in 2024. Though he later lost the belt to Richardson Hitchins by split decision, Paro’s stock rose from that fight.

Papot (30-0-1, 5 KO’s) brings an undefeated record, but a glance at the numbers tells a story. At 34, the Frenchman has compiled his wins mostly on the European scene, with limited exposure against top-tier names.

Tale of the Tape

Liam Paro – Odds 1.08

Record: 26-1, 16 KO’s

Age: 29

Height: 5ft8

Reach: 71”

Weight: Welterweight

Stance: Southpaw

David Papot – Odds 8.00

Record: 30-0-1, 5 KO’s

Age: 34

Height: 5ft11

Reach: 69″

Weight: Welterweight 

Stance: Southpaw

Liam Paro vs David Papot: Analysis

This is a rare southpaw vs southpaw battle, which often produces tactical, cagey affairs. Paro will likely look to establish control with his jab, pick his moments for power shots, and gradually wear Papot down. Papot’s strategy will be to box cautiously, avoid exchanges, and attempt to nick rounds through volume and movement.

The critical difference is firepower. Paro has demonstrated he can hurt world-class opponents, while Papot has not shown the ability to stop fighters at this level. If Papot cannot keep Paro honest, the Australian will steadily dominate and eventually show no respect for his power and begin to crank up the heat and pressure to try and force the stoppage.

Being undefeated gives Papot confidence and composure under pressure though and he will not be intimidated by the occasion. But, he will need all of his composure for this one.

Paro vs Papot: Prediction & Betting Tips

I expect Paro to control the action, dictate tempo, and bank rounds steadily. Papot may frustrate the home fighter at times with defence and movement, but the Australian’s class should shine through over 12 rounds.

A late Paro stoppage is possible if he overwhelms Papot, but less likely. Papot’s best chance is winning on points in a low-tempo fight, though I cannot see the fight playing out like that.

My pick for this one is Liam Paro to win by decision or technical decision at odds of 2.10. This should set the Aussie up with a title challenge against Northern Ireland’s newly crowned IBF welterweight champion Lewis Crocker.