Wilkens Mathieu learns with every fight. Last night was his third as a pro. He easily defeated Jesus Frias Rodriguez. Two small rounds and good evening.
Mike Moffa guided his boxer throughout the fight. Remind him at every opportunity not to be arrogant, not to be overconfident and always think defensively, even when throwing combinations.
Wilkens is only 18 years old. He faces men and cannot afford to be unfocused.
“It’s true, if I got too comfortable and lowered my arms before I delivered my shot, Mike Moffa would yell at me not to get cocky.” And even when I’m throwing combinations, the coach always reminds me, always prefer defense. We are here to succeed, we are here to make a career. You always have to be aware of that,” said the young man.
Throughout the fight, he hit Rodriguez square in the face with his long jab.
“Jab, jab and straight to the body. At some point he was completely confused, he didn’t know where it came from. When he gave up cover to throw a punch to protect himself from the thrust, I pinched him with my right hand. He didn’t know where he was anymore,” explained Mathieu.
182 pounds at dinner
If you have an 18-year-old kid at home, you know that’s great garbage disposal. Imagine a tall man who manages to lose 75.5 kilograms and listens to his body.
“I ate, I ate the rest of the day. My body told me I was hungry. So much so that after dinner I weighed 182 pounds.
“In the morning I was a little better under control. I had a not-too-large breakfast, an avocado sandwich, and a tuna dinner. I got in the ring at 178 pounds. I don’t like feeling too heavy before a fight,” said Mathieu.
The fight yesterday was important for him. He managed to focus on his confrontation in the casino, but let himself go in the evening.
“I wanted to make a good impression. For me it was a calling card for August 19 in Quebec,” said the young boxer.
THE VISIT OF GAÉTAN HART
Someone had the wonderful idea of inviting Gaétan Hart to the gala. The former Canadian champion, still just as reserved and discreet, enjoyed his evening. And nothing makes him happier than shaking hands with the fans who greet him.
Hart had his career at a time when wallets were tight and a Canadian league title was important. He had a memorable world title fight against Aaron Pryor in Cincinnati.
It was a pleasure to find him.
TVA Sports live on August 19
TVA Sports is expected to announce in the coming days that the channel will be broadcasting all fights live from the Videotron Center except Artur Beterbiev’s.
This means the Quebecers are entitled to fights from Simon Kean in the semis, Christian MBilli, Mary Spencer and Wilkens Mathieu. Among other things, because more fights will be added. Louis-Philippe Neveu was proud yesterday not to confirm any of the news. We were almost at 4,000 tickets sold, although the public promotion hasn’t started yet.
In addition, last night’s gala at the casino will be rescheduled once the 72-hour clause is met.
Mr. Neveu, who is of course very busy, has to fly to Florida on Tuesday where he will spend 48 hours preparing for the presentation of the Panthers’ third game against the Las Vegas Golden Knights.
Éric Duhaime, Conservative leader in Quebec, will no doubt be present at the game. He is said to feel comfortable in Florida, home of right-wing governor Ron DeSantis.
FINALLY ELECTRICITY
Last night’s gala at the casino started with generators due to a major power outage in the area.
All essential services were available except for the air conditioning, which was probably too energy intensive.
When Wilkens Mathieu entered the ring, Pierre Fitzgibbon had given the signal to turn on the power. But had to wait until 10am for the dishwasher.
China
Lexson Mathieu published a good book this week. According to him, during his travels in Asia, he repeatedly heard acquaintances refer to “Chinada” when talking about Canada.
You should ask Justin Trudeau’s special counsel David Johnston what he thinks.
