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Attending a United Boxing Promotions boxing match is an unforgettable and electrifying experience
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
I was anxious to get there, and of course traffic in Toronto was making it extremely difficult. Yes, fight fans, Simone Jennifer Smith was on her way to Pickering Casino Resort for another United Boxing Promotions event. It has been a couple months since I last attended, so I have to admit, I was really excited.
It was an OFFICIALLY SOLD-OUT NIGHT at the Pickering Casino Resort, and as I entered the casino, the energy in the crowd was palpable. I was late of course and missed the Michael Cabato vs Oscar Velazquez fight. Michael Cabato’s all-action United Promotions debut ended in a disputed draw in April, but he and coach Malik have been in the lab ever since with their eyes on the prize, and it paid off with his hand raised. Fans were cheering, the energy was high, and made for an electric atmosphere.
This is what I truly love about boxing. It delivers moments of high drama and emotion. On Saturday, September 9th, 2023, knockdowns, comebacks, and unexpected twists in the fight left the audience on the edge of their seats.
The Melinda Watpool vs Patricia Gonzalez fight was just about to begin when I grabbed my seat. 5x Canadian National Champ Melinda ‘The Whip’ Watpool was on a two fight KO streak, entering the fourth outing of her career against Spanish prospect-killer Patricia Gonzalez. It was a scheduled 8-rounder, and Watpool did not disappoint. She won that match with her impressive mix of athleticism and raw power. It is no wonder she is already ranked by the IBO as the #7-ranked contender in the Middleweight Division!
Next up, Jamaica’s People’s Champ Kemahl “The Hitman” Russell vs Juan Carlos Raygosa. Boasting an 86% knockout rate, Kemahl “The Hitman” Russell made his return to the ring in April 2023 after a five-year hiatus. With a record of 15-1 (12 KO) and boasting concussive power in both hands, Russell gave fans a show by knocking Carlos out like only he can.
I have to say, Thad Buntsma vs Dylan Rushton was one of my favourite fights. These two fighters came out swinging, and it was their fight that got fans on their feet. I had not seen them on the original fight card, but they came out ready to put on a show. Thad walked away with the win; Dylan just could not stand up to his vicious series of blows.
We can’t forget our Heavyweight Jamaican Hero Ricardo “Big 12” Brown who faced Pavel Sour. Olympian Ricardo “Big 12″ Brown (9-0, 9K0) extended his perfect knockout streak against fellow big-man and former Czech Heavyweight Champion, 6′ 5.5” Pavel “Pablo” Sour. These heavyweights hit hard, and after demolishing Pavel, Big 12 did his customary push-ups in the ring. Definitely a moment of pride for the island of Jamaica.
The crowd was on their feet when hometown hero Sukhdeep Singh entered the auditorium. His entrance was spectacular, but fighters are known to have elaborate walkout routines, complete with music, lights, and sometimes even fireworks. It set the tone for the match and got the crowd pumped up. You could feel the tension building as he made their way to the center of the ring, and you could feel the excitement in the air.
Sukhdeep’s win came from him tactfully picking apart Luis Vidales, and from the moment they came face-to-face for the final stare-down you could feel the intensity. It was a visual representation of the impending battle and a moment that all the fans were eagerly waiting for.
Once the fight started, the adrenaline really kicked in. Watching two highly trained athletes go toe-to-toe, exchanging punches, and strategizing in real-time is a thrilling sight. I could hear the thud of the punches and felt the fighter’s intensity. Cheers, chants, and gasps from the audience added to the overall experience. When Sukhdeep landed a big punch, or made a dramatic move, the crowd erupted in excitement.
As a true boxing fan, I appreciate the tactical aspects of the sport. Analyzing the fighters’ techniques, footwork, and game plans always adds an intellectual dimension to the excitement.
United Boxing Promotions have produced some of the most iconic moments in Canadian sports history. Whether it’s a historic upset, a dramatic knockout, or a close decision, these moments have become part of boxing lore and will be discussed for years to come.
It is a blend of sensory experiences, emotions, and the thrill of witnessing high-stakes competition. Whether you’re a boxing aficionado, or simply looking for a thrilling live sports experience, attending a United Boxing Promotions boxing match is an unforgettable and electrifying experience.