The 2019 Canadian National Amateur Championships now has all ten gold medal matchups confirmed after day two competition unfolded in Lethbridge, Alta.
When an injury forced Blake McVittie to withdraw from his semi-final bout, Ramil Kamilov (4-1) moved forward to challenge Jett Grande (12-0) in Friday's welterweight championship bout at Rumble in the Cage 61.
Kamilov mentioned that while securing a finals berth was satisfying, he would have preferred the additional bout and developmental opportunity against McVittie.
"I want additional victories and experience under my belt. I don't travel to Nationals just to navigate my way to the title — I want to stack up as many wins and learning moments as I can," Kamilov shared.
"I was looking forward to the matchup with Blake. It felt like a fight I could take, and I believe I would've put that guy away."
Kamilov has shifted his focus toward the reigning world champion, Grande.
According to Kamilov, this potential showdown had crossed his mind from the moment he signed up for the tournament, given how likely it seemed that he and Grande might end up facing off.
While Grande brings significant danger to the equation, Kamilov feels confident he possesses the tools needed to pull off the upset — he just needs to execute on fight night.
"From where I stand heading into this matchup, we're both 0-0 against each other. I feel like my overall skill set gives me the edge," Kamilov explained.
"Every opponent he's faced before hasn't done what seems incredibly straightforward to me. I won't spell it out, but I know exactly what needs to happen, and I'm fully aware that pulling it off won't be simple."
Mavridis Stays Winless No More
In a bout that hung in the balance through the judges' scorecards, Andrew Mavridis (now 6-0) punched his ticket to the lightweight championship round with a split decision victory over Russ McCumber (now 5-5).
Mavridis and his coaching staff viewed the contest as highly competitive, something Mavridis echoed afterward, saying he was pleased to earn a shot at the gold medal.
