Reshat Mati Wins Big in Comeback Fight, Remains Undefeated at 16-0

UPDATE: Staten Island’s boxing sensation, Reshat Mati, also known as the “Albanian Bear,” has made a triumphant return to the ring, remaining undefeated at 16-0 after a hard-fought victory over Ecuador’s Jose Angulo on October 18, 2023, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The fight, contested at a catchweight of 158 pounds, ended in a narrow majority decision, with judges scoring it 77-75, 76-76, and 77-75 in favor of Mati.

After a lengthy 19-month hiatus due to personal and physical challenges, this match marked not just a return, but a significant test of Mati’s resilience and determination. The 27-year-old fighter faced numerous hurdles, including undergoing elbow surgery and supporting his father, Adrian Mati, who received a heart transplant earlier this year.

“It was a weird kind of comeback,” Mati said, reflecting on the challenges he faced. “Things weren’t going toward the plan of the fight. I had to adapt… I had to do whatever it took to get the win.” His introspection highlights the mental battle he endured, stating, “I definitely had a tougher time in this fight, but it wasn’t toward the opponent. It was more toward myself and trying to get my head right.”

Mati’s victory is a beacon of hope not just for him but for Albanian boxing, a country yet to produce a world champion recognized by major boxing organizations like WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO. Despite the absence of his father in his corner, who was unable to attend the fight, Mati emphasized the importance of adapting to unforeseen circumstances. “I usually have my dad in my corner, and I had to do the whole camp without him,” he noted.

The comeback was not just about the fight itself; it was a culmination of intense preparation. Over the months leading to this bout, Mati committed himself to rigorous training, focusing on sparring, conditioning, and refining his skills. “It was a rough camp, and things weren’t going how I wanted them to go,” he admitted. “But at the end, we still got the job done and remained undefeated.”

With his record now at 16-0, Mati stays focused on the bigger picture: world titles. “For me, 16-0 is just a number,” he asserted. Although no future fights are currently scheduled, he is dedicated to recovery and improvement, aiming to avoid past mistakes.

Looking ahead, Mati plans to remain active in boxing for the next four to five years, fully committed to becoming Albania’s first world champion. His journey is one of discipline, pride, and an unwavering spirit, making him a fighter to watch in the coming years.

As boxing continues to evolve, Reshat Mati stands at the forefront of a new era for Albanian boxing, aiming not only for personal glory but also for national pride. With his unmatched determination and skill in the ring, the “Albanian Bear” is poised to leave a lasting mark on the sport.