Marie-Pier Houle would fight for the interim world championship

By William Dumoulin

Photo credit: Yanick Maltais

Canada Fighting reportedly learned in recent hours that Marie-Pier Houle (11-1-2, 3 KOs) could soon step back into the ring to contest the WBA interim welterweight title. She would face undefeated southpaw Stephanie Piñeiro Aquino of Puerto Rico (8-0, 2 KOs) in a bout that would take place on Puerto Rican soil.

This would mark Houle’s first fight since November 14, 2024. She had been patiently waiting for a major opportunity since then. It would also be her second chance to fight for a world title. Let’s recall that the fighter from Trois-Rivières reportedly suffered her first career defeat in April 2023 against Sandy Ryan in a fight for the vacant WBO welterweight title previously held by Jessica McCaskill.

Stephanie Piñeiro Aquino would currently be considered one of Puerto Rico’s most promising fighters in her division, combining a strong amateur background with a flawless start to her professional career, highlighted by a WBA continental title. Her recent progress would position her as a serious contender for a world championship. This fight would therefore represent a crucial stepping stone for the athlete who would emerge victorious from the ring.

One of Piñeiro’s most notable fights would be her clear-cut, ten-round decision win over Diana Tapia Castro. That victory would have allowed her to claim the WBA Continental Americas title at 147 lbs.

Currently ranked just behind Lauren Price, the reigning world champion, Piñeiro would be closely followed by Houle, who reportedly sits in the second spot. The challenge would therefore be a significant one for the Quebec fighter in this highly competitive division. We would certainly wish her to bring the belt home to Quebec!