Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing are set to stage their first card in Canada when Mexican junior lightweights Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez and Rene Tellez Giron clash over 12 rounds at Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau, Quebec on Friday February 28.
The event, broadcast live on DAZN and in association with Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), will also feature heavyweight hope, Canadian Alexis Barriere, with view to the two promotional groups coming together to guide the 29-year-old southpaw’s career. Barriere, 11-0 (9 KOs) is set to face Mexico’s Ubaldo Ilagor, 13-1 (12 KOs).
Barriere (11-0 9 KOs) returns to action for the first time since October 2023 but he’s been in good company in the interim, sparring Tyson Fury ahead of his two fights with Oleksandr Usyk last year.
“For me, it’s a new start on February 28, when my international career really begins,” stated the Sugar Hill Steward-trained prospect. “I may not have been active in fights the last year, but it was a rich experience and learning thanks to Tyson Fury and my trainer Sugar Hill. I know my opponent is dangerous, but nothing is going to stop me! I can’t wait to give you a great show!”
Ilagor, meanwhile, has been training in Las Vegas for the last six weeks and is quoted as calling it “the best preparation of my life”.
Hernandez, 36-2 (32 KOs), is back after an accidental head clash prematurely ended in his bout with Thomas Mattice, leaving Rocky the victor via technical decision in September. He is likely best remembered for his courageous, but unsuccessful, bid to unseat WBC junior lightweight boss O’Shaquie Foster when he was stopped in the 12th and final round.
Giron, who “can’t afford to lose this fight”, gave Floyd Schofield by flooring him in the 11th round of their November clash before losing widely on the cards.
“I am thrilled to announce Matchroom’s first event in Canada and the prospective of signing Alexis Barriere with our partner Yvon Michel,” stated Hearn. “This will be the 19th country that we have promoted events in, and it’s one that we’re very excited to branch out to.”
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