Major statement from Arber Xhekaj on Matt Rempe and the stage is set for the upcoming showdown

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Elias Edmonson
March 10, 2024 (3:34 PM)

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Matt Rempe has been the center of attention in the NHL over the past few days.

The giant of 6 feet and 8 inches and 240 pounds, who has only a few games in the NHL, has already faced off against some of the toughest fighters in the league. He has not been afraid to drop the gloves against the likes of Nicolas Deslauriers, Matt Martin, Mathieu Olivier, and Ryan Reaves.

This was enough for the fans of the CH to start looking forward to their Sheriff, Arber Xhekaj, crossing swords with the young sensation. For the first time, the CH defenseman reacted to Rempe.

In a discussion with journalist Eric Engels from Sportsnet, Xhekaj reflected on the New York Rangers forward's beginnings. It's clear he has a lot of respect for him:

Engels: "Have you paid attention to what the Empire State Building has been doing?"

Xhekaj: "How could I not hear about it? He's everywhere right now. Honestly, it's pretty cool for him."

Engels: "What do you think about how often he drops the gloves and the opponents he has chosen to face?"

Xhekaj: "It's pretty crazy. He's getting the invites and he has the balls to do it. These are big boy fights � six to eight punches to the face, and his face is badly battered � but even when he's chased around by Reaves the whole game, he's ready to show up!"

Engels: "I feel like Deslauriers is one of the most intimidating players in the NHL. What do you think about that fight?"

Xhekaj: "It was probably the best fight I've seen in the last 10 years. Guys don't fight like that anymore. Deslauriers fought like that back in the day, and when a guy wants to go old school, he doesn't hesitate. He doesn't pull his punches, I guarantee you!"

Engels: "When you see this, do you think you'll end up facing each other?"

Xhekaj: "Obviously! If he stays in the league, we'll probably have a few fights over our careers. I've played against him in the minors, too. He knows his role, he doesn't care, and he'll do whatever it takes to keep his spot!"

- Eric Engels & Arber Xhekaj

This sets the stage for the showdown between the CH and the Rangers that will take place on April 7th. It will be interesting to see if the two strongmen will clash for the occasion.

As for Rempe, many are uncomfortable seeing him act this way. Especially with the state of his face, which is at least bruised. These people are concerned for the young man's health and hope, at least, that he will be able to better protect himself.

This is the case with former fighter Chris Nilan. He expressed concern on the X platform about Rempe's lack of technique.

"His technique is bad. He leaves gaping openings. He's going to get hurt again. I don't know if anyone is advising him, but he needs help. It's good to win fights, but not if you're seeing stars after each one."

"He needs to learn the right technique to ultimately become a better fighter." - Chris Nilan

It will be interesting to see what happens next with the young Rangers forward. Let's hope he can skip a few fights in the coming days and thus stay healthy!

Via HF