This winter, boxing fans are eagerly anticipating the match between Arthur Biyarslanov and Mohamed Mimoune, who are also friends. Biyarslanov (17-0, 14 K.O.) will defend his NABF super lightweight title against Mimoune (24-6, 5 K.O.) this Thursday. Despite their camaraderie, both fighters recognize the seriousness of competition, with Mimoune’s nickname being “The Problem.” The event also features heavyweight Bakhodir Jalolov in a co-main fight, further heightening the excitement in the boxing community.
Winter Friendships Tested in the Ring: Biyarslanov vs. Mimoune
This winter, the boxing world is buzzing with excitement as friends prepare to face off in the ring. Ahead of the much-anticipated Butler-Bazinyan showdown next month, all eyes will be on the upcoming match between Arthur Biyarslanov and Mohamed Mimoune this Thursday.
Arthur Biyarslanov (17-0, 14 K.O.) is set to defend his NABF super lightweight title (140 lb) against French contender Mohamed Mimoune (24-6, 5 K.O.).
The Russian-born boxer, who has made Toronto his home for over six years, reflected on his relationship with Mimoune, stating, “I met him for the first time in 2018, shortly after moving to Canada. We’ve stayed connected through social media since then.”
However, their connection runs deeper than mere acquaintanceship. “It’s business, but Arthur remains a brother. After the fight, we’ll go out for a meal or pray together; we do everything together,” Mimoune shared shortly after the press conference on Tuesday.
Unveiling Their Bond
Samuel Décarie, Biyarslanov’s coach, elaborates on the strong bond between the two fighters, crediting part of it to his influence. “I introduced Mimoune to Arthur while training Yves Ulysse for a southpaw match. They even traveled to Mecca together, sharing memorable moments,” Décarie recounted.
Biyarslanov initially hesitated at the thought of battling Mimoune, who he views as more than just a rival. “When I informed Arthur about the match, he asked if we could find someone else. I told him this is a chance to climb the rankings and showcase his abilities,” Décarie explained.
Facing “The Problem”
As Biyarslanov prepares for this bout, he must set aside friendship, for Mimoune poses a significant challenge. “Mimoune’s nickname is ‘The Problem,’” Décarie pointed out. “We’ve done extensive preparation, and now it’s time to put our training to the test. We’ll see how many issues we can tackle during the fight and how we can apply everything we’ve practiced to measure our progress.”
Describing Mimoune’s boxing style, Décarie noted, “He’s a southpaw with an elusive technique, making him tough to corner. While he may only have five K.O.s on his record, he’s capable of hurting his opponents, whether through knockdowns or significant strikes.”
Mimoune, donning his signature Prada glasses, emphasized the seriousness of the competition. “When I step into the ring, it feels like I’m heading into battle. I’ll shut out the outside world until the bell rings at the end of the 10th round,” he stated resolutely.
Excitement in the Co-Main Event
The co-main event will feature heavyweight sensation Bakhodir Jalolov (14-0, 14 K.O.), a rising star under Top Rank and Eye of the Tiger Management (EOTTM), as he takes on French fighter David Spilmont (16-8-1, 11 K.O.).
Jalolov, a two-time Olympic champion, is generating significant buzz ahead of his first fight since clinching gold in Paris last summer. EOTTM’s vice president, Antonin Décarie, expressed enthusiasm, saying, “We are lucky to have Jalolov in Montreal. He’s the Michael Jordan of boxing, a true prodigy.”
Coach Marc Ramsay added, “He hasn’t lost a fight in over ten years as an amateur. Jalolov is poised to be the successor to [Oleksandr] Usyk.”