We’re getting a rematch between the United States and Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Naturally, everyone is wondering how things will unfold, especially after three fights broke out in the first nine seconds of their last matchup this past weekend. Now, Drew Doughty shares his thoughts on a potential fight with Matthew Tkachuk.
Tensions have been building between the two neighboring countries, especially since former President Donald Trump’s tariff threats. Canadian fans have been booing the American national anthem for weeks, and when the teams met in the 4 Nations Face-Off last weekend, loud boos echoed through Bell Centre during the anthem.
You could tell how much the game meant to the players, too. Before nine seconds had even ticked off the clock, three fights had already broken out. Matthew Tkachuk was the first to drop the gloves, squaring off against Brandon Hagel. Just as play resumed, his brother Brady joined the action, taking on Sam Bennett. Moments later, J.T. Miller found himself in the penalty box as well after a spirited tilt with Colton Parayko.
Drew Doughty’s awesome words
It was a game to remember, with many calling it the wildest opening in hockey history. Now, the highly anticipated rematch is set for Thursday evening, and fans can’t wait to see if the chaos from Saturday carries over. One potential heavyweight tilt may already be in the works, courtesy of the one and only Paul Bissonnette.
After Canada’s victory over Finland on Monday, Drew Doughty joined the NHL on TNT crew for a post-game interview. Bissonnette wasted no time, asking Doughty directly if he’d be willing to drop the gloves with Matthew Tkachuk.
“You’re putting me on the spot, Biz,” Doughty said.
“I’ll do anything for my country. If the time is right and I’ve got to go, I guess so,” he added with a laugh.
It wouldn’t be the first time. In 2017, the two had a heated feud after Tkachuk threw a dirty elbow, prompting Doughty to call him a ‘dirty player.’ Weeks later, they clashed again, and the bad blood only escalated from there. The feud peaked in 2019 when Doughty declared he had ‘no respect’ for Tkachuk.
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