The boxing universe has realigned its stars for an electrifying gala on September 8th at the Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau. With the unforeseen deferment of the monumental unification bout between light heavyweight champions Artur Beterbiev and Callum Smith, initially pencilled in for January 13, the brains at Eye of the Tiger have had to think on their feet. Their primary goal? Ensure no boxing aficionado misses out on an exhilarating experience.
At the heart of this reshuffled jigsaw is Christian Mbilli. With accolades aplenty, Mbilli is a force to be reckoned with in the WBC super middleweight division. Boasting a prestigious rank of #1 in the WBC, #3 in both The Ring Magazine and the WBA, and a notable #4 in the IBF, his unblemished record is an intimidating 24-0 with 20 of those being KOs. Holding the WBC Continental Americas champion title, it’s not just about defending a record for Mbilli; it’s about cementing his legacy.
But standing opposite him in the ring will be no pushover. Demond Nicholson (26-5-1, 22 KOs) is every bit the seasoned warrior, having sparred with legends like Edgar Berlanga and Demetrius Andrade. Nicholson’s renowned offensive strategy promises fireworks, ensuring that when these two titans clash, it won’t just be a fight—it’ll be a saga told through punches, dodges, and the sheer will to triumph.
Reflecting on the unexpected events, a contemplative Mbilli mused, “The postponement of the Quebec gala was an unexpected curveball. Like the legions of fans, I was anxiously awaiting the next move. My heartfelt thanks to my indefatigable team for their nimbleness, ensuring I remain on course by scheduling my fight on the September 8th card. Despite this change, my vision is crystal clear: overpower my adversary, clinch another win, and etch the next chapter in my odyssey.”
However, Mbilli and Nicholson’s impending showdown is just the tip of the iceberg.
The evening promises another high-voltage face-off. The spotlight will be on Steve Claggett (35-7-2, 25 KOs), the freshly crowned NABF super lightweight champion. Having clinched his title only last June, Claggett is gearing up for his first defence against none other than former WBA world champion, Alberto Machado. Yet, lurking in the shadows is the formidable “El Tiburon”, Carlos Sanchez Valadez (24-1, 19 KOs), a name synonymous with staggering knockout prowess. Boxing enthusiasts are in for a treat as they witness this triumvirate entangle in bouts of skill, strategy, and strength.
But the gala doesn’t stop there. Buckingham’s very own, Alexandre Gaumont (8-0, 6 KOs), will be embroiled in a battle of unbeaten gladiators as he squares off against Ulices Tovar Rivera (8-0, 5 KOs). It’s a classic tale of two rising stars, both with everything to prove and everything to lose.
Furthermore, the fierce Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse (5-1, 2 KOs) is all set to challenge Timea Nagy (2-1, 2 KOs). This duel promises a display of technique, tenacity, and temerity. The card is further embellished by the likes of Christopher Guerrero (7-0, 3 KOs), Luis Santana (9-0, 3 KOs), and Jhon Orobio (3-0, 3 KOs) – each eager to demonstrate their boxing mettle and contribute to an unforgettable evening.