Chalk up another impressive victory for Leo Laferriere in the ring.
The Whistler Boxing Club member soldiered on through first-round adversity to overcome Arjun Mangat by unanimous decision on Feb. 21 at Griffins Boxing in North Vancouver. Both fighters were coming off Bronze Gloves titles from last year and faced each other at catchweight (63 kilograms).
Laferriere admitted to feeling off before the bout and remarked: "Still gave my best and happy with the outcome. Would like to thank my coaches and team members for helping to prepare me for this fight, [and] would like to thank my opponent for putting on a good fight. Maybe we can have a rematch in the future. Also, I would like to thank my family for their support."
Mangat represents Ocean City Boxing Club in Surrey and exploded into action at the opening bell, forcing Laferriere onto the ropes with powerful blows. The Sea to Sky combatant responded with heart and defensive acumen, mitigating damage until he escaped the jaws of danger.
Whistler assistant coach Dan Ross then got to work on the stool, outlining a few tactical adjustments that Laferriere executed. The Pembertonian was able to avoid or block most of Mangat's aggressive combinations in round two, moving smoothly around the ring and catching his foe off guard with sharp left hooks.
Laferriere entered the third round strong, heeding Ross' advice to go for the knockout. He took control of the ensuing firefight, and his clean punches forced Mangat to take a standing eight count. Although the outcome ultimately went to the judges, they acknowledged Laferriere's poise and high work rate by naming him the victor.
"As his coach, I can confidently say that Mangat was the toughest opponent Leo has faced so far," commented Whistler head coach Sasha Gier. "We are pleased with the outcome of the fight and want to commend Arjun Mangat for being a formidable opponent and a true sportsman.
"Special thanks also go to Coach Dan Ross for his excellent work in the corner, as well as to [Whistler] club fighters Geoff Bates, Devyn Frame, and Owen Leno whose sparring sessions helped prepare Leo for this challenge. Looking ahead, we are excited to see Leo back in the ring, with plans for another fight in March."
