The air crackled with anticipation as fight fans packed the OE Banquet & Conference Centre on October 3rd, 2025. United Boxing Promotions brought their electrifying “NEXT UP” series to Oakville, delivering a night that would leave spectators buzzing long after the final bell.
As someone who has covered boxing across Ontario, I can tell you this was a masterclass in matchmaking and a testament to the sport’s growing appeal in our communities.
What makes United Boxing Promotions stand out is their strategic approach to building the sport from the ground up. Before the professionals stepped into the ring, four amateur bouts showcased Ontario’s brightest rising talent. This is an investment. By giving these young fighters a platform, United is nurturing the next generation while giving fans a glimpse of tomorrow’s champions today. The intelligence in this approach cannot be overstated.
The professional card delivered exactly what fight fans crave: action, drama, and moments that make you leap from your seat. Nawid Zaman faced Drake Olchowecki in a light heavyweight contest that had the crowd on its feet. When Drake rocked Zaman twice in the second round, you could feel the momentum shifting. Though Zaman showed heart and had excellent corner guidance, Drake’s powerful right hand proved decisive, earning him a well-deserved 58-56 victory.
If you thought that was exciting, you should have seen Deaquan Rumbolt’s professional debut. Fighting in his hometown of Oakville, Rumbolt delivered a performance that dreams are made of. In the first round, one of his punches literally lifted his opponent off his feet, a moment that drew collective gasps from everyone in attendance. Two knockdowns in that opening round set the tone, and by the fourth round, Rumbolt ended it with a spectacular knockout. There’s nothing quite like witnessing a local hero’s journey begin right before your eyes.
The heavyweight bout between Doni Foreman and Elder Hernandez Gama showcased pure power. After a competitive start, Foreman’s relentless pressure led to a standing eight count in the fourth round before Hernandez’s corner wisely called it off, protecting their fighter from unnecessary damage.
The main event delivered exactly what championship boxing should. Bradley “The Truth” Wilcox faced previously unbeaten Jordan McNaughton for the IBF North America Welterweight Title. What unfolded was nine rounds of tactical warfare, with both men trading shots evenly until Wilcox began to take control. By the ninth round, Wilcock systematically broke down his opponent, keeping him on the ropes and working the body with precision. When the judges’ scorecards were read, 96-94 across the board, the arena erupted. The belt comes home to Hamilton.
If you missed this incredible night of boxing, mark your calendars for Friday, November 28th at the Canada Event Centre in Whitby. If you appreciate fighters who give everything to the sport, consider attending Ajax’s own Brandon “Bad Boy” Cook’s farewell fight, a storied career coming full circle in what promises to be a night you will never forget.
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