Relentless Alvin Matthews outslugs Elias Bernado on Trenton amateur card

Alvin Matthews thrilled his hometown fans on Saturday, September 7, defeating bitter rival Elias Bernado by unanimous decision at the Mayor Donnelly Homes Gym in Trenton, N.J.

Matthews, a 2022 N.J. Golden Gloves subnovice champ, pressed the action throughout against the 22-year-old Bernado, the reigning 165-pound novice champ and a resident of Newark. Matthews landed several right hands that snapped the Newark boxer’s head back but didn’t receive a count. 

“I’m feeling great after this victory! I knew it was going to be a tough fight, but I went in there mentally strong, knowing I was going to get the job done in my hometown. Winning here made it even more special. It’s an incredible feeling to share this moment with my friends and family who have supported me every step of the way. I can’t wait for what’s next,” said Matthews, 27, a three-time open class finalist from Knuckle Game Boxing.

The Matthews-Bernado bout was one of three open class fights on the 17-bout card, though all three bouts had their time cut from the standard three minute round length to two minutes after the show started an hour late, effectively making them novice class bouts.

Matthews returns to action on September 14 when he faces Aaron Garcia at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia as part of the pro-am card promoted by Alex Barbosa’s R&B Promotions. 

Garcia, 23, of Bridgeton, N.J. has a record of 6-1 as an amateur.