On a fight night featuring some of boxing`s biggest names in New York, the undercard presented its own intriguing matchups. One such bout pitted two undefeated female fighters against each other: Canada`s Tamm Thibeault and Pittsburgh`s Mary Casamassa. Their perfect records were on the line, and after a compelling contest, it was Thibeault who emerged with her unblemished record intact, securing a technical knockout victory in the fifth round.
The fight, part of the buildup to the highly anticipated Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III main event, was scheduled for eight rounds, notably contested under the three-minute duration standard – a format less frequently seen in women`s boxing compared to the more common two-minute rounds. This structural detail suggested a fight designed to test endurance and power application over slightly longer periods per round.
From the opening bell, it became clear that Thibeault, a two-time Olympian with a pre-fight record of 2-0 (1 KO), intended to impose her will. Against Casamassa, who entered with a more extensive yet less knockout-laden record of 6-0 (1 KO), Thibeault utilized her technical skill and perceived power advantage effectively. Her control of distance and ring space was evident early.
The first significant moment arrived late in the opening round. Thibeault connected with a sharp one-two combination, sending Casamassa to the canvas for a count. This knockdown served as an immediate indicator of the power differential Thibeault possessed, marking the first time Casamassa had likely faced such concussive force in her professional career.
Despite the early setback, Casamassa displayed grit. In the third round, she attempted to press forward and initiate her own offense. However, Thibeault`s defense remained tight, and her ability to evade or absorb incoming fire while countering limited Casamassa`s effectiveness. Casamassa`s punches, at times, lacked the snap needed to deter the aggressive Thibeault, appearing more pushed than truly impactful.
The physical toll of the fight was becoming apparent on Casamassa as the rounds progressed. Before the commencement of the fifth round, the ringside doctor conducted a careful check of Casamassa`s condition, a standard but necessary precaution when a fighter has absorbed significant punishment. Referee Charlie Fitch also assessed her, reportedly asking her to demonstrate her movement, a subtle yet telling sign of concern for her well-being.
Nonetheless, the fight was allowed to continue, but not for much longer. Thibeault pressed her advantage in the fifth, landing a powerful overhand left, a punch she had used effectively throughout the bout. This primary shot was quickly followed by a series of unanswered follow-up punches. Recognizing that Casamassa was in distress and no longer intelligently defending herself, Referee Fitch made the decisive call to step in and stop the contest at 2:18 of the round.
The technical knockout victory elevates Tamm Thibeault`s professional record to an impressive 3-0 with 2 wins coming by knockout. More significantly, it marks her as a formidable presence in her division, proving her capability on a high-profile undercard. For Mary Casamassa, the loss is the first blemish on her record, moving to 6-1, and represents a difficult lesson learned at a higher level of competition.
Speaking after her victory, a visibly pleased Thibeault reflected on the moments leading up to the stoppage.
Nerves are normal, excitement is normal, that’s why I do it, right? I didn’t come in here looking for the stoppage, I came in here to be the best version of myself and if it came, so be it.
Thibeault`s composed post-fight comments, coupled with her clinical performance in the ring, underscore her potential trajectory in the sport. Her dominant win ensures she remains a prospect to watch closely.
Tristan Blackwood