Unified light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev and world heavyweight contender Arslanbek Makhmudov can breathe a sigh of relief. They will be able to continue to train in the same gymnasium at the Center Claude-Robillard according to our information.
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Since the publication of the Journal last week, things have been moving behind the scenes. Officials from the City of Montreal, owner of the Center Claude-Robillard, notably conducted an investigation to find out the reasons for the dispute in this case.
Initially, the Montreal Sports Council (CSM) had decided that the Montreal Sports Excellence Gymnasium could be used only by amateur athletes. It was the CSM’s athlete and team services manager, Frédérik Laberge, who made this decision.
He had given a week’s notice to the two boxers and their physical trainer, Andre Kulesza, to find another gym. Through several discussions, we understood that Laberge and Kulesza had had a personality conflict for a few years.
In addition, it must be understood that Beterbiev and Makhmudov hire Kulesza who must find the sports facilities where they must perfect their physical condition. They often used the gymnasium at times when it was empty. This is what they will be able to continue to do in the coming months.
Good news
This is great news for Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs) and Makhmudov (16-0, 15 KOs) as they prepare for important fights in the coming months. The heavyweight is in training camp for his July 1 duel in Toledo, Ohio. For the occasion, he will face the Nigerien Raphael Akpejiori (15-0, 14 KOs) in a shock presented in front of the cameras of ESPN.
Besides, he started his sessions with training partners this week. He is now assured of being able to do them in optimal conditions.
For his part, Beterbiev will step into the ring this summer when he takes on his WBC mandatory challenger, England’s Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs). The month of August would be targeted by the various actors in the file. The duel could take place in Montreal or London. Top Rank won the tender last week.