Mazlum Akdeniz to Face Sebastian Aguirre on May 16

By William Dumoulin

Photo credit: Groupe Yvon Michel

Groupe Yvon Michel announced today at a press conference that Mazlum Akdeniz (19-0, 8 KOs) will headline the main event of their gala on May 16 at the Cabaret du Casino in Montreal. On this occasion, he will face southpaw Sebastian Aguirre (19-4, 12 KOs) in a 10-round bout. This will not be Aguirre’s first trip to Canada, as he previously fought Steve Claggett for 9 rounds in 2022. It was important for Akdeniz’s team to face a southpaw, as the Quebecois will serve as a sparring partner for former undisputed super-lightweight champion Josh Taylor, one of the best southpaws in the world.

After her decisive victory on April 4, Kim Clavel (18-2, 3 KOs) will return to the ring to face American Katherine Renee Lindenmuth (6-2, 2 KOs). Clavel is now ranked No. 1 by the IBF and No. 2 by the WBC. With a win on May 16, a world championship fight could come quickly for the former champion.

In a 100% Quebecois duel, Theo Owusu (3-0-1, 2 KOs) will take on Zacharie Loiseau (3-0-1, 1 KO). A true 50/50 fight, as both boxers have identical records and will want to use this opportunity to shine. This is exactly the type of fight that helps advance the entire boxing industry.

To open the gala, two Quebecois prospects will be in action. The popular Abed Almoty El Safadi (6-0, 2 KOs) will face the undefeated Estonian Mark Andrejev (2-0, 0 KOs). After his fight on April 4 was canceled, Winner Bondo (making his pro debut) will finally have the chance to make his professional debut in this gala against an opponent to be announced soon.

During this press conference, Groupe Yvon Michel also announced that another gala will take place at the Cabaret du Casino in Montreal on June 20. Former world title challenger Marie Pier Houle (10-1-1, 3 KOs) will headline her first main event as she faces the dangerous Mexican Karla Ramos Zamora (11-10-1, 4 KOs). The latter knocked out Montrealer Jessica Camara during her last visit to Canada. Houle will need to be at her best to hope to win this duel.