Montreal Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj (72) fights Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov (91) during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) The Montreal Canadiens vs Boston Bruins rivalry once again lived up to its reputation during an intense NHL match today, highlighted by a thunderous fight between two of the league’s most physical defensemen. With emotions running high and the game already trending toward a gritty finish. And the crowd sensed something big was coming.Arber Xhekaj of the Montreal Canadiens and Nikita Zadorov of the Boston Bruins delivered exactly that. The heavyweight clash wasn’t just about punches; it was about setting a tone in a rivalry game where physicality, pride, and momentum all carry significant weight in the outcome.
Arber Xhekaj and Nikita Zadorov fight details in Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins game
The confrontation unfolded at center ice after a physical sequence that saw multiple hits exchanged. Recognizing the moment, Arber Xhekaj and Nikita Zadorov squared up, and the officials gave them space as both players willingly engaged.Zadorov, using his size and reach, attempted to dictate the pace early in the fight. Xhekaj responded with composure and strength, landing solid punches while maintaining his balance. The exchange lasted several seconds before both players grappled and fell to the ice. Thus, drawing a roaring reaction from the Boston crowd.Both defensemen were assessed major penalties, but the impact of the fight went far beyond the penalty minutes. The Bruins fed off Zadorov’s physical response, while the Canadiens bench appeared energized by Xhekaj’s willingness to answer the challenge on hostile ice.From an NHL news roundup perspective, the fight instantly became one of the most replayed moments of the night. Analysts pointed out how rare true heavyweight tilts have become and why moments like this still resonate with fans who appreciate old-school hockey.As NHL updates continue to circulate, the Xhekaj-Zadorov showdown stands out. That too, as a defining sequence from the Montreal Canadiens at Boston Bruins game.Also Read: Net worth of Auston Matthews in 2025: Details on Toronto Maple Leafs captain’s earnings, salary, and contracts