12 Sep “EOTTM, ‘PROMOTER OF THE YEAR’ FOR A SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR
During its 53rd annual convention held from September 6 to 9 in Orlando, the North American Boxing Federation (NABF) awarded, for the second consecutive year, the title of Promoter of the Year to Eye of the Tiger. This recognition is warmly welcomed by the Montreal-based organization.
“This distinction validates all the hard work done by our team over the past months and solidifies our position as a leader in the promotion of professional boxing, both nationally and internationally. Passion for our sport is at the heart of our achievements, and we work with valued partners to whom I dedicate this award, as they are an integral part of our success. Special mention also goes to boxing enthusiasts without whom none of this would be possible,” says EOTTM President Camille Estephan.
If the past few months have been marked by significant events for Eye of the Tiger, it is primarily due to the spectacular performances of its athletes, which have allowed some to acquire important tools for their development and others to climb significantly in the world rankings. These sold-out galas, crowd-stirring fights, and brilliantly defended titles would not have been possible without the collaboration of Montreal-based organization’s partners such as Mise O Jeu, Videotron, TVA Sports, and BPM Sports, who contribute directly to the development and success of Quebecois boxing, as well as to fans of boxing and EOTTM.
Among the notable events presented by Eye of the Tiger, the one featuring Christian Mbilli (25-0, 21 KOs) against Carlos Gongora for the defense of his WBC Continental Americas and WBA International titles on March 23rd is certainly at the top of the list. Regarded as an epic battle by many specialists, its images, especially those from the 8th round, circulated throughout the boxing world. The coming months will be significant for Mbilli, who is now ranked #1 in the WBC and #3 in the WBA.
Like Mbilli, heavyweight Arslanbek Makhmudov (17-0, 16 KOs) has gained notoriety in the boxing heavyweight division, particularly by winning the NABF title and defending it multiple times. He made his American debut last July, where he scored another quick victory against the undefeated Raphael Akpejiori (15-1, 14 KOs), allowing him to rise to 3rd place in the WBC and 6th place in the WBA.
Erik Bazinyan (30-0, 21 KOs) is also a name that resonates in the 168 lb division. Over the years, Bazinyan has shown consistent progress, going through a series of fights against increasingly formidable opponents, ultimately winning the NABA and NABF titles and defending them against opponents such as Marcelo Coceres, Alantez Fox, and Jose de Jesus Macias. As his pro career advances, Erik Bazinyan continues to be a major competitive force in the super middleweight division, one of the most talented divisions, ranking 2nd in the WBA and 3rd in the WBC.
Last Friday, at an event in Gatineau, the NABF 140 lb champion, Steve Claggett (36-7-2, 26 KOs), fiercely defended his title against Carlos Sanchez Valadez (24-2, 19 KOs), who offered solid opposition in a thrilling 10-round fight. The fights delivered in recent months by the Canadian boxer have propelled him into the top 15 of the WBC, allowing him to continue rising towards the top of the super lightweight division.
In addition to these distinguished athletes, the development of newcomers in the stable should be watched closely. 2023 is undoubtedly a pivotal year for recruitment at EOTTM, with Wilkens Mathieu (3-0, 2 KOs), a raw talent from Canadian amateur boxing, joining the team. The same goes for young Jhon Orobio (4-0, 4 KOs), who is making his mark in the 130 lb division, and Mehmet Nadir Unal (5-0, 4 KOs), who will disrupt the light heavyweight division. Moreno Fendero (1-0) made his professional debut just a few days ago and impressed the crowd with his technique. The latest acquisition, but certainly not the least, will also delight boxing fans with his powerful performances. Olympian Imam Khataev (3-0, 3 KOs) is quickly making his mark in the 175 lb division.
On October 11th, EOTTM’s gala will be held at the Cabaret du Casino de Montreal, where Mary Spencer (7-1, 5 KOs) will attempt to avenge her only career defeat against Femke Hermans (16-4, 7 KOs) as the two boxers vie for the IBF and IBO super middleweight world titles. Tickets are currently on sale through the www.ticketmaster.ca network.