Photo: Elhem Mekhaled / FB
Christian Mbilli will face Maciej Sulecki on June 27 in Quebec. But in my mind, it’s an entirely different match that keeps playing on repeat… Leïla Beaudoin will go up against Elhem Mekhaled.
Yes, that Elhem Mekhaled—top-ranked in the WBC, and the same one who came close to defeating Chantelle Cameron.
In a sport where everything is calculated and where the cliché “risk vs. reward” is uttered every third sentence, it’s refreshing to see a boxer like Leïla Beaudoin going against the grain. She personally accepted the fight after her French opponent reached out to her via social media.
And when a former world champion crosses the Atlantic to fight here, she deserves a full profile on your favorite boxing site: Punching Grace.
Photo: Elhem Mekhaled and the WBC World interim title (2019)
Who is Elhem Mekhaled?
Nicknamed The Diamond, Elhem Mekhaled is a French-Algerian boxer born on February 7, 1991, in Vaulx-en-Velin, a suburb of Lyon. She quickly became a prominent figure in French women’s boxing thanks to her discipline, charisma, and high-level performances.
She discovered boxing at age 16 during a school fair. Former boxer Bob M’Bayo was present with a mobile ring to promote the sport. After trying handball and gymnastics, Elhem was instantly hooked. She joined the Boxing Club of Vaulx-en-Velin.
She attempted to qualify for the Rio Olympics but was unsuccessful, which pushed her into the professional ranks.
Notable Record:
- French Champion (2017)
- European Champion (2018)
- Interim WBC Champion (2019)
In September 2020, she signed a contract with MTK Global, opening the door to bigger opportunities.
Photo: DAZN – Alycia Baumgardner, Eddie Hearn and Elhem Mekhaled (2023)
Major Fights
On February 4, 2023, she faced Alycia Baumgardner, holder of all four world titles, at Madison Square Garden. Mekhaled was knocked down twice in the third round, but she got back up and delivered a courageous performance that earned her the respect of the American audience. Her resilience stood out.
Then, on July 20, 2024, she delivered what may be the most impressive fight of her career. She moved up a weight class to face former unified champion Chantelle Cameron for the interim WBC super-lightweight title. The bout was tight and intense. One of the three judges even scored it a draw. Despite the split decision, Mekhaled walked away with her reputation enhanced.
Fighting Style
Quick execution, mobility, high and compact guard—Elhem Mekhaled is a complete technician. She can fight on the inside, counter-punch, or take the lead. What truly sets her apart is her courage, resilience, and ability to rise to the occasion in adversity.
Fun fact: she always enters the arena wearing sequin dresses fit for a red carpet. We can’t wait to see what she has in store for her ring walk at the Centre Vidéotron in Quebec.
Photo: Elhem Mekhaled et Delfine Persoon (2022)
The Person Behind the Athlete
You can’t talk about Elhem without mentioning her coach Joseph Germain. In the many documentaries dedicated to her, their rare bond is evident. They complement, understand, and deeply respect one another.
And unlike many elite athletes, Elhem has never left her day job. She works as a claims manager at Matmut (a mutual insurance company). Her employer has always supported her boxing career. She thus balances the life of an elite boxer with that of an active professional woman—humble and grounded.
A Pivotal Fight
The fight against Leïla Beaudoin (12–1, 1 KO) represents a golden opportunity for Mekhaled. Armed with international experience, she’ll still need to watch out for a local fighter on the rise, one who’s motivated to perform in front of her home crowd and the ESPN cameras.
“I figure she must feel comfortable at home with her whole support team. Being the underdog works to my advantage. There’s no pressure. So to speak, I’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain. My preparation is intense, focused, and very rigorous. I respect Leïla Beaudoin. She’s a talented and technical boxer. I’ve been at the top level—I know what it takes, and I’m more motivated than ever.”
— Elhem Mekhaled
With a win, the French-Algerian boxer could position herself perfectly for another shot at a world title. Time is ticking, and it’s hard to believe Alycia Baumgardner will hold onto all four belts forever. The 135-pound division is full of opportunities… and Elhem Mekhaled intends to claim her space.
As for Leïla Beaudoin, this may be the biggest challenge of her career—or the launchpad to global recognition.
Photo: Mathieu Belanger / EOTTM – Leila Beaudoin
On the Podcast
France vs. Quebec matchups are trending lately.
Caroline Veyre will face Licia Boudersa (23–3–2, 4 KO), and the top-ranked contender for Mary Spencer’s title is Priscilla Peterle, a native of Saint-Pol-sur-Mer.
Also in Quebec on June 27, Wilkens Mathieu (13–0, 9 KO) will take on Lille’s pride, Adagio Mcdonald (8–0, 6 KO), the French amateur champion… Vive la France!
Sending my regards to my friend Tom Lapointe—my prayers are with you.
