NHL: MAR 03 Lightning at Panthers - Source: Getty — Jonah Gadjovich and Joseph LaBate throw bombs like there's no tomorrow in heated Panthers-Blue Jackets matchup - Source: Getty

Watch: Jonah Gadjovich and Joseph LaBate throw bombs like there's no tomorrow in heated Panthers-Blue Jackets matchup

Modified Mar 07, 2025 03:07 GMT

The first period of Thursday's matchup between the Florida Panthers and the Columbus Blue Jackets saw a heated exchange between Jonah Gadjovich and Joseph LaBate.

The two forwards traded barbs during a play, which quickly escalated into a full-blown fight. Dropping the gloves near the center ice, Gadjovich and LaBate unleashed a flurry of punches, neither willing to give an inch.

The crowd erupted excitedly as the two players went toe-to-toe, exchanging heavy blows. Ultimately the fight ended in a draw, with officials intervening to separate the two players to avoid further tussle.

Watch the video here:

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Gadjovich was involved in a second fight during the same period against Mathieu Olivier.

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Joseph LaBate and Jonah Gadjovich were both given five-minute major penalties for fighting. Meanwhile, the matchup ended with the Florida Panthers beating the Blue Jackets 3-0.

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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