Erik Bazinyan vs Steven Butler set for March 14 in Montreal

On March 14, two top contenders will battle it out for a shot at the top, as world super middleweight contender Erik 'Bzo' Bazinyan faces off against Montreal's own Steven 'Bang Bang' Butler in a thrilling 10-round matchup.

The event will take place at Théâtre St-Denis in Montreal and will be broadcast live on Punchinggrace.com and ESPN+ starting at 6:30 p.m.

"It's incredibly difficult for me to see our athletes face each other, but I’m happy we can join forces to deliver another great local fight for our fans and kick off 2025 with a bang," said Camille Estephan, president of Eye of the Tiger Management (EOTTM).

Estephan will be watching not only two of his athletes, but also two of his long-time protégés, share the ring. Bazinyan and Butler have been with EOTTM since 2018 and 2014, respectively, making them the two longest-serving members of the 23-fighter Montreal stable. 2025 is seen as the perfect time for this matchup to take place.

“Erik absolutely needs to get back on the winning track, and Steven absolutely needs a significant victory to return to the international stage. From both sides, it’s a critical fight,” said Marc Ramsay, EOTTM Director of Development.

Bazinyan (32-1-1, 23 KOs), who experienced his first career loss in September against former world champion Jaime Munguia in Arizona, is looking to rebound after a draw against Shakeel Phinn in May 2024. The Laval native believes this fight against Butler is the opportunity he needs to return to the top.

"Steven has fought for a world title twice. He’s a good boxer, everyone knows him, and this fight will generate a lot of buzz. I trust my team and the process to get me to the top," said Bazinyan, who is currently ranked 10th in the world by the WBO and IBF, and 12th by the WBC.

For two-time world title challenger Steven Butler (35-5-1, 29 KOs), the timing of this fight is also crucial. After a first-round knockout of Steve Rolls last March, Butler faced a setback against Patrice Volny in June but bounced back with a win in November, marking his debut in the 168 lb division. Now, he’s focused on taking on the world’s top 10 and reminding everyone of his abilities.

"I’ve never been afraid of anyone. No matter who my team has put in front of me, I’ve always had the guts to step up, and that won’t change for Erik Bazinyan or anyone else. For 10 years, I’ve always delivered an exciting show, and that won’t change on March 14 either," said Butler, determined to make the fight of the night and come out victorious.

This showdown promises to be one of the most exciting local clashes of 2025.