Big-punching duo Imam Khataev and Arthur Biyarslanov will return in separate bouts co-headlining an Eye of The Tiger event at Montreal Casino, Montreal, on June 5.

Opponents for both and the rest of the undercard will be announced in due course. However, what we do know is that both will defend their respective NABF titles.

"Arthur and Imam are two athletes often compared to Artur Beterbiev," said Camille Estephan President of Eye of The Tiger. "That says a lot about the level of boxing we’re lucky to have here, and the potential they possess.

"I have no doubt they represent the beginning of a great chapter for Quebec boxing."

Khataev (10-0, 9 knockouts), rated at No. 10 by The Ring at light heavyweight, won bronze for Russia at the 2020 (delayed to 2021) Tokyo Olympics. After turning professional in November 2021 he moved in Australia.

After switching operations to Canada, he has remained active and steadily moved up in competition. The 30-year-old holds wins over the rugged Richards Bolotniks (TKO 6), veteran Ezequiel Maderna (TKO 7), unbeaten Cuban Yunior Menendez (TKO 3) and, most recently, Durvel Palacio (UD 10).

Biyarslanov (18-0, 15 KOs) was born in Chechnya but moved to Canada at a young age. He was a successful amateur, who represented his adopted homeland at the 2016 Olympics losing at the quarter-final stage.

The 29-year-old southpaw turned professional in the fall of 2018. His initial progress was slow but steady and something of a slow burn. He signed with EOTT early last year and having already annexed the regional NABF junior welterweight title (previously held by stablemate Steve Claggett) back in June 2023 and has made three defenses, most notably becoming the first person to stop Mohamed Mimoune (TKO 2) in February.