Shakeel Phinn Comes Back Strong

By William Dumoulin

Photo Credit: Canada Fighting – Andréanne Lambert

Friday night marked the second gala presented by Canada Fighting Club at La Tohu, following Jessica Camara’s WBA Gold title defense last September. In front of a crowd of nearly 700 spectators, the card once again featured a mix of international boxing, with world title contenders Shakeel Phinn (27-3-2, 17 KOs) and Mathieu Germain (26-2-1, 11 KOs), along with local action featuring three all-Quebec matchups.

The Jamaican Juggernaut Delivers

In the evening’s main event, Shakeel Phinn stepped into the ring for the first time since his controversial draw against Erik Bazinyan. Facing him was the tough Argentinian Facundo Nicolas Galovar (15-13-2, 9 KOs), who had previously gone the distance against Wilkens Mathieu, Mehmet Unal, and Albert Ramirez.

Aware of his opponent’s resilience, Phinn focused on body shots before finishing upstairs. He managed to shake Galovar several times throughout the fight but couldn’t secure the stoppage before the final bell. The Quebec native claimed a unanimous decision victory, with all three judges scoring it 100-90.

G-Time Extends His Streak to Eight Wins

In the co-main event, Mathieu "G-Time" Germain returned to La Tohu, this time taking on Argentina’s Carlos Aquino (22-18-2, 14 KOs). Facing a taller opponent, "G-Time" adapted well, using his precision and speed to consistently land clean shots. His dominance ultimately forced Aquino’s corner to throw in the towel in the seventh round.

Germain now looks to secure an international opportunity after negotiations for a fight in Australia against George Kambosos fell through.

Alex Perron Stops Blaze Sylvestre

After delivering the fight of the night last September, Alex Perron (2-0, 1 KO) and Blaze Sylvestre (1-2, 0 KOs) squared off in a highly anticipated rematch. This time, Perron was determined to secure a more decisive victory. Mission accomplished—he stopped his rival in the third round.

Gisela Noemi Luna Shocks the Crowd at La Tohu

In the night’s only women’s bout, Sophie Le Grand (0-1, 0 KOs) made her professional debut against seasoned Argentinian fighter Gisela Noemi Luna (3-7-1, 1 KO). Luna’s experience proved to be the difference, as she claimed a unanimous decision victory (39-37 x2, 40-36).

Winner Bondo Showcases Technical Prowess

In a compelling all-Quebec matchup between two undefeated fighters, Winner Bondo (3-0, 0 KOs) and Simon Risler (1-1-1, 0 KOs) battled over four rounds. Bondo’s superior technique carried him to a unanimous decision win (40-36 x2, 39-37).

A War to Open the Night

Kicking off the evening, Stéphane Barthelemy (0-0-1, 0 KOs) had a tough test in his professional debut, taking on Serge Ntetu (0-2-1, 0 KOs) in a four-round showdown. In a hard-fought contest, the bout ended in a draw (38-38 x2, 39-37).