Costly Setback for Alexis Barrière Against Vianello

By William Dumoulin

In the biggest fight of his career, Alexis Barrière (12–1, 10 KOs) suffered a brutal knockout loss to Italy’s “Gladiator,” Guido Vianello (14–3–1, 12 KOs). The Quebec heavyweight started well, but the tide turned in Round 4 when Vianello rocked him and scored a knockdown. Barrière was saved by the bell, yet he couldn’t make it through the fifth, absorbing the first defeat of his professional career.

The loss came in Barrière’s first major international showcase under the Matchroom Boxing banner. It remains to be seen whether the British outfit will continue to invest in the Quebecer’s trajectory. Barrière’s inactivity and promotional headwinds certainly played a part, and the step up from his previous opposition to Vianello proved substantial.

For Vianello, it’s a second victory over a Quebec heavyweight, following his 2024 win against Arslanbek Makhmudov.

Makhmudov Victorious in Sheffield

Earlier in the day, also at heavyweight, Arslanbek Makhmudov (21–2, 19 KOs) appeared to reboot his career with a solid unanimous decision over popular Briton David Allen (24–8–2, 19 KOs), by scores of 115–111, 116–110 and 117–109. Makhmudov boxed smartly and showed plenty of grit, battling back after absorbing a barrage in the ninth round.

With the win, Makhmudov moves back into position for a potential showdown with Anthony Joshua in 2026, as part of Joshua’s anticipated return. The Russian-born heavyweight sounded bullish about what’s next:

“Trust me, I still have a lot left to accomplish! If Anthony Joshua keeps his promise [to give me the fight if I won], he’ll be the next name on my hit list.”